Stories of Change
Discover the journeys of those AFF has supported in building a brighter future.
QSAP Alumni Story Series: More than a degree
QSAP alumni rebuilding their lives and giving back to their new communities
Real Change, Real People
Meet the people behind the mission. These stories highlight how AFF programs have helped Afghans around the world reclaim their futures
“Before coming to the Enabled Children School, my daughter Zainab was isolated, quiet, and emotionally withdrawn. After losing her father, I raised her alone and constantly worried about her future. But over time, this ECI school has changed our lives. Zainab has grown emotionally, socially, and behaviorally. To me, the ECI school has been more than just a school — it has
taken on the role of a father in raising my daughter.”
– Fatima, 48
Kabul, Afghanistan
Mother of a child with a disability
“QSAP gave me the opportunity to pursue my Master’s at James Madison University. Studying
at JMU helped me grow tremendously as a person. While the experience came with its
challenges, it eventually felt like a second home. I’m truly grateful for the friendships I built and
the incredible support I received from the JMU community.”
– Huda Attaey
QSAP alumna
Diyana Sharifi
Let’s not forget that we are not just graduates. We are advocates. We have learned how to stand up for justice, for fairness, and for those whose voices are not heard. So, wherever we go next— whether it’s a law firm, a nonprofit, or a courtroom—let’s use our knowledge to make a difference. Let’s keep pushing for a world where no one is left behind.”
Shahdukht Tapesh
“This scholarship gave me hope and purpose, opened doors to the U.S. job market, and helped me pursue the future I had always dreamed of. It’s been a true blessing—providing recognition, support, and the confidence to navigate my career path.”
Ahmed Ali
“The program gave us guidance, structure, and a strong network that pushed our startup forward. It helped us turn a real need into a real solution.”
Fatima
“Before coming to the Enabled Children School, my daughter Zainab was isolated, quiet, and emotionally withdrawn. After losing her father, I raised her alone and constantly worried about her future. But over time, this ECI school has changed our lives. Zainab has grown emotionally, socially, and behaviorally. To me, the ECI school has been more than just a school — it has taken on the role of a father in raising my daughter.”
Huda Attaey
“QSAP gave me the opportunity to pursue my Master’s at James Madison University. Studying at JMU helped me grow tremendously as a person. While the experience came with its challenges, it eventually felt like a second home. I’m truly grateful for the friendships I built and the incredible support I received from the JMU community.”
Andrew Sullivan
“The Afghan Future Fund provides invaluable support to America’s wartime Afghan allies and other at-risk Afghans. Afghan Future Fund is an incredible partner to No One Left Behind, and we were honored to team up with them for the American Allies Scholarship Program. This program provides scholarships of up to $20,000 for deserving Afghan and Iraqi Special Immigrant Visa recipients — through the generosity of the Afghan Future Fund, America’s allies now have support in raising their level of education, advancing their careers, and building a freer and more prosperous future.”
Ahmed Abulgane,
“The program helped refine my business model, identify key challenges, and gave me the confidence to present my vision. It was a turning point for me as an entrepreneur.”
Yaser Atarud
“The Refugee Entrepreneurship Program gave me the structure and support I needed to turn my vision into a viable business. It reminded me that being a refugee isn’t a limitation—it’s a source of strength and resilience.”
What People Say
About Us
Hear directly from those who’ve lived the journey—students, entrepreneurs, volunteers, and global partners share their experience with AFF
Featured In
Our work has been recognized by global media and academic publications. These features amplify Afghan voices and showcase what’s possible with support