Yesterday I was honoured to be awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Social Sciences by Royal Holloway, University of London. This prestigious award marked my commitment to serving refugee communities across the UK in my role as Founder and Director of Afghanistan and Central Asian Association (ACAA).
The Honorary Doctorate also celebrated the challenges my family and I have overcome in order to thrive in a new society, having been forced out of Afghanistan. Twenty-five years ago, my family and I left our home and embarked upon a dangerous journey to England in the hope of finding a better life for ourselves. Coming to the UK, we achieved this and more, and are now able to help others pursue a better life for themselves too. Our journey was not easy.
In my acceptance speech yesterday I spoke of the many borders we had to cross to eventually make it to Dover in the back of a refrigerated lorry.
I also spoke of my father’s dream for his son to succeed. I am proud to have accomplished this dream for him. Whilst he is not here, I am grateful to my mother and the rest of my family, especially my children who have accomplished so much. As I said in my speech, my wife, Mahboba, and I have stood shoulder to shoulder during these struggles, and I am immensely thankful to her.
Finally, thank you to Royal Holloway University for their granting me this honour and for their hospitality. The event yesterday was truly excellent and we look forward to continuing to develop this important partnership in the future.