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When Jawad arrived in the United States after leaving Afghanistan in August 2021, he brought more than just memories of his homeland. 

He carried his passion for storytelling through photography. 

In Afghanistan, Jawad volunteered his photography skills to a youth club that organized environmental cleanups and a women’s literature club, documenting their work through his lens. What began as a teenage hobby, inspired by friends and nurtured through his volunteer work, became a vital thread in the fabric of his new life in Maryland. 

Jawad’s motivation lies in the joy of capturing a photo that looks visually striking—a composition that stands out and shows the beauty in everyday life. In Afghanistan, Jawad used a Canon camera to capture the story of his people and home, including everyday children working on the streets. In the U.S., Jawad volunteers his photography skills at community events, capturing moments that bring his peers together. 

A local Afghan community celebration
Photo Credit: Jawad Yagana

At a local Afghan gathering celebrating Hazara culture, Jawad captured Afghan women in traditional clothing as they shared food, danced, and celebrated their heritage. Whether he’s photographing nature, portraits or local events, his lens offers a window into the resilience and vibrancy of his community.   

Jawad’s journey reflects the ̽����ѡ in Silver Spring’s commitment to empowering newcomers and creating pathways for them to thrive, not just survive, in their new communities. 

The ̽����ѡ in Silver Spring enrolled Jawad in the Afghan Support to School Impact program, an ̽����ѡ initiative that enables Afghan youth to access post-secondary education, trade schools and other training programs. The ̽����ѡ’s youth team works closely with Jawad to provide advising, enrollment support and funding for certifications. This support has helped Jawad stay focused on his passion for photography while building the language and technical skills needed to expand his opportunities, including in photography. With the ̽����ѡ’s guidance, Jawad is preparing to take a proficiency exam, a critical step toward enrolling in English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at Prince George’s Community College in Spring 2025. 

Hoping to save up for a professional photography setup in the future, Jawad currently utilizes the resources available to him as he grows his audience. Jawad dreams of becoming a photojournalist, documenting stories that matter and amplifying the voices of those often unheard. 

His advice for others navigating life in a new country reflects the balance he’s found between integration and personal growth, especially in his art:

“When you’re busy with a new life, it’s important to make time for what you love—even if it’s once every 2-3 weeks.”

Building a new life is about more than meeting basic needs—it’s about growth, creativity, and connection. The ̽����ѡ in Silver Spring is proud to support individuals like Jawad, whose talents and determination enrich our community and inspire others to pursue their passions.