Ahmad Naveed Farhad, 24, was raised with his four siblings in the eastern part of Afghanistan. He became a social activist, promoting women’s rights, and also worked as a photographer and videographer for NGOs. While he was in India working on his Bachelor of Computer Science Engineering, Afghanistan fell to the Taliban. Naveed was unable to return home because his life would have been in danger, so he went to Germany. As a software engineer, he engages with a supportive community of peers and experts. “This dynamic environment aligns with my passion for technological advancement and fosters both personal and professional growth.”

Growing up with Pashto literature and tradition, Naveed recognizes the need to preserve and promote the rich Pashto literary heritage of Afghanistan in the digital age. This idea led him to discover his other talent. He is deeply engaged in online communities by reading Pashto poetry and song lyrics on social media. “In extending the concept of Pashto poetry to online forms of expression, I was inspired by the profound beauty and cultural significance of the Pashto language. Connecting Pashtun communities, my creative work aims to serve as a digital oasis where poets and enthusiasts alike can come together to celebrate, share, and perpetuate the timeless beauty of Pashto verse.” Recently, one of his posts got over one million views on TikTok.

For Naveed, arriving in a new country was both exhilarating and challenging. “Navigating daily activities such as grocery shopping or using public transportation were among the initial hurdles I faced. I mostly survived thanks to my digital supporters,” he remembers about his first days in Berlin. Like many newcomers, he faced uncertainty and adversity.  “The weight of cultural adaptation and labyrinthine bureaucratic procedures bore down on me like an unyielding storm, threatening to engulf my spirit in despair. In those darkest moments, when the echoes of doubt reverberated within me, Germany revealed its true essence—as a beacon of compassion and resilience.” Later Naveed met local communities and fellow immigrants, which eased the transition and made him feel welcome. “I found solace in the outstretched hands of these individuals and the unwavering support of local organizations.”

Naveed enjoys his time in Berlin and his regular walks along the river Spree. “The beautiful nature and landscapes, and Germany’s dedication to environmental conservation and renewable energy align with my values, making it an attractive place for me to live and work,” he says. Although his new home has many positive qualities for Naveed, he emphasizes the need to streamline administrative procedures and provide clearer guidance to navigate bureaucratic systems. “This would facilitate smoother integration for immigrants and expatriates.”

While Naveed is adapting to a new culture and social norms, he misses Afghanistan. “I remember the haunting melodies of traditional music, the aroma of spices in bustling bazaars, and the warmth of community gatherings under starlit skies. Alongside the richness of my memories of Afghan culture, I still feel the ache of homesickness, longing for the embrace of my homeland’s warmth and spirit.” Nevertheless, he feels fortunate to have established new friendships with individuals from various backgrounds through participation in community events and cultural exchange programs in Germany. 

Naveed suggests to his fellow Afghans that it is important to understand German culture. “Embrace the opportunity to learn about German culture while also sharing and celebrating your own Afghan heritage. Cultural exchange enriches both individuals and communities, fostering understanding and mutual respect.”

In his private life, Naveed is exploring new interests and focusing on personal development. Professionally, he is seeking opportunities for advancement and growth. And, when he finds himself in a difficult situation, he engages in activities that enhance resilience, such as practicing mindfulness and gratitude. “With a magic wand, I would like to mend the fractures of division and heal the wounds of injustice. I would like to sow the seeds of empathy and understanding, fostering a world where kindness and compassion reign supreme, guiding humanity towards a brighter and more inclusive future.”