Mohammad Omar Nabard Faiz, who is now 37 years old, was born in northern Afghanistan. His father was a taxi driver, and his mother stayed home to raise their family. In the ‘90s, Nabard’s father migrated to Germany to earn a better living and provide for his family. Nabard remembers this part of his childhood, which was mostly about missing his father: “at that time, all I wanted was to see my father again.” Later, he, his pregnant mother and siblings fled from Afghanistan. It would be several months before the family was reunited and Nabard could see his father again.

When Nabard first arrived in Germany, he found everything to be hectic yet it was a peaceful new home. In the beginning, he did not like Germany and he was unable to communicate with anyone except his parents, says Nabard about his first impressions of his new home. “However, as time passed and I began to interact with more people, I quickly learned German and made new friends.”

Nabard grew up in a so-called socially troubled area. His family faced financial struggles and a constant feeling of rejection due to their status as migrants and a refugees. “Racist and far-right comments have accompanied me through life, but nevertheless I’ve overcome them and discovered my talents.” Despite the challenges of racism and marginalization, Nabard was able to accomplish his dream of becoming a medical doctor with a specialization in cardiology and internal medicine.

He would like to pursue his engagement with German society further. Nabard says: “Germany is my home, even though my Afghan roots are deeply imbedded in my heart. Here, living in Germany, I can shape things, inspire change, and express myself as a person in the way I feel is right.” Nabard’s friends come from various backgrounds but they all consider themselves to be part of Germany.

In 2006, Nabard travelled back to Afghanistan on a trip that took him from Kabul to Faizabad to Mazar and Kunduz. He cherishes the memories of this journey. “Afghanistan is a stunning country with its diverse languages, music, food, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. It is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and offers a natural spectacle that only a few have had the privilege to admire, unfortunately.”

He advises his fellow Afghans in Germany to remain hopeful always. “Seize the opportunities you are offered. You can make a difference here and also improve things in your favor.”

While he appreciates the education opportunities by the German state, he attributes the success in his career in large part to his parents and acknowledges the sacrifices they made for him. “I often think about the challenges they faced in order to provide for us and enable us to become what we are today. Now, as a medical doctor, I am grateful for the opportunity to use my skills to help others, and to give something back to them and to society.”

“Say Bismillah – we start our action seeking help and blessings through the name of Allah, and move on!”