Resilience and Hope: The Journey of an Afghan Refugee in Columbia, South Carolina

COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA: A Journey of Resilience and Hope

It’s a typical September day in Columbia, where the rain is gradually easing into a few gentle showers in the afternoon. The temperature reaches a comfy 80°F, perfectly suitable for a stroll or a cup of coffee by the window, while the chance of rain lurks at about 80%. But as we pause to marvel at the weather, a remarkable story of human strength and resilience unfolds right here in our city.

Meet Abdul Quayom Rahimi

Abdul Quayom Rahimi, a name that resonates with bravery, is not your ordinary resident. Once the governor of not one, but two provinces in Afghanistan, he is now carving out a new life in Irmo, South Carolina, just outside of Columbia. His tale is woven with threads of perseverance and heartache, one that takes us through the tumultuous terrain of his past.

A Day to Remember

“It’s hard to forget August 2021,” Abdul recalls, with a distant look in his eyes. Those were days filled with chaos and turmoil as Taliban soldiers stormed his office, leaving him to grapple with thoughts of survival amidst gunfire and airstrikes.

He recalls vividly the moment he felt his life hanging by a thread, surrounded by adversity as Taliban forces overtook his city, Puli Alam. “They beat me, they threatened my life, all because I stood against them.” He speaks of the anger directed at him, a fierce local leader who fought valiantly, even as many surrendered to the impending tide—the Taliban’s resurgence.

From Kabul to Columbia

In what may seem like an unimaginable turn of events, just three years after his entrapment in that moment of danger, Abdul now lives in a quiet apartment with his wife Qudsia Saheb Khan and their children. Columbia, with its blend of Southern charm and supportive community, offers him a haven after years of turmoil. “I never thought I’d be here, away from my homeland,” he admits. Yet, in the simple elegance of this American town, he finds moments of peace.

The Struggles of Adaptation

While the warmth of Southern hospitality is palpable, Abdul and the Afghan community find themselves grappling with unique challenges. Adapting to this new environment is not easy. “America is lonely,” he remarks, reflecting on the smaller gatherings of friends and family compared to the communal joy back home.

Many Afghans still reside in a state of adjustment—frustrated by traffic laws, overwhelmed by the differences in cultural norms, and haunted by the relentless memories of conflict. The sound of a beeping alarm, a normal reminder for most, triggers painful memories of bomb blasts for them. “We lived in survival mode for too long,” he expresses, a clear indicator of the psychological battles many refugees face.

Seeking Stability

Yet, there is hope on the horizon. Abdul is determined to start anew. He currently works in an Amazon warehouse, squaring off items as a means to support his family. Despite his extensive qualifications, including multiple degrees and vast administrative experience, he finds himself in a job that many might consider beneath him. “Here, you have to do two or three jobs when building a life,” he says, emphasizing the struggles many refugees endure as they pursue the American dream.

Building Bridges

Forging connections is essential to Abdul’s goal of support for the Afghan community. He plans to establish Our Refuge 91, a nonprofit organization that aims to provide a space for Afghan refugees to gather, share their stories, and assist with their legal needs.

“Our history is not just ours; it belongs to those who will come after us,” he proclaims. He aims to create a system where Afghan families can connect and help each other thrive in their new home.

The Road Ahead

As this chapter of his life unfolds, Abdul remains steadfast in his commitment to never forget his homeland. His dreams flutter between hope for his family’s future in the U.S. and aspirations of returning to an Afghanistan free from turmoil. “One day, we will go back,” he declares, instilling that hope amid uncertainty.

Indeed, the resilient spirit of Abdul Quayom Rahimi personifies the journey many Afghans are undertaking as they adjust to life in Columbia. Though they’ve left behind their old lives, their stories of courage continue to inspire us all.