Our Mission
The Yalda Hakim Foundation (YHF), in collaboration with Schmidt Futures, established the Afghan Future Fund (AFF) post the fall of Afghanistan in 2021. Dedicated to supporting at-risk Afghans, particularly women, journalists, civil society leaders, activists, and students, AFF’s mission centers on empowering talented Afghans to realize their full potential. Our initiatives focus on three strategic priorities:
High Quality Education Programs
Addressing the urgent need for fundamental education programs in the wake of significant setbacks in the Afghan education sector, we provide access to relevant and high-quality education through scholarships, placements at American colleges and universities, and innovative learning avenues, both online and in person.
Skills Training, Upskilling, and Reskilling Programs
Recognizing the challenges Afghan refugees face in entering the US job market, we bridge skills gaps through mentoring, coaching, and accredited certifications. Our goal is to equip Afghan refugees with the hard and soft skills necessary for success in the US workplace, aiming to skill, upskill, and reskill individuals.
Employment and Entrepreneurship Initiatives
Focused on reducing employment barriers for Afghan refugees, we assist companies in building effective refugee hiring programs, connect Afghan entrepreneurs with mentorship, seed capital, and networking opportunities, and support refugee entrepreneurship programs. Our aim is to help Afghan refugees find meaningful employment and Afghan entrepreneurs to launch successful businesses/products.