The story of an ordinary man

By Telwasa Akbari

This short video is based on my father's real refugee journey from Kabul, Afghanistan to Toronto, Canada. I grew up hearing bits and pieces of his story at random moments throughout my life. For instance, at dinner one day, he told me that he once went months without eating any sort of meat while traveling, and to curb a strong hunger felt one day, he took some oil and rubbed it against his dry lips to imitate the feeling of eating meat.

It is a unique experience to grow up as the eldest child of refugees. You are always reminded that you are blessed to be in the land you were born in. I know I am and this fact never escapes me. I attempted to capture his story in this short video but I know there is so much more he has yet to share. Afghans are strong, hard-working and resilient people. Our stories are barely told and we need to tell them more to the rest of the world.

About: My name is Telwasa Akbari, a Pashto name that means "to live forever" or " تل اوسئ ". I have an Honours Bachelor of Science from the University of Toronto with majors in Bio/Psych and a minor in education studies. I am currently finishing up my second degree in Public Health & Safety and I work at Princess Margaret Cancer Research Center assisting with research in clinical trials. I am extremely passionate about everything fictional, and spend my time reading and writing and re-watching all my favourite movies and shows (especially shows).

Keep in touch with Telwasa Akbari

Instagram: @telwasaakbari @diaryofagirlwithanxiety

LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/telwasa-akbari/

Cover Image by Sana Saidi