An Afghan refugee who fled the Taliban is now helping other displaced individuals find new beginnings in America through his leadership role at Catholic Charities of Owensboro.
At a Glance
- Khaibar Shafaq, Director of Migration and Refugee Services for Catholic Charities of Owensboro, will share his journey from refugee to advocate at an upcoming public event
- Shafaq arrived in the U.S. in 2021 after fleeing the Taliban and found purpose helping others in similar situations
- His April 30th presentation at Owensboro Community and Technical College will cover global displacement, refugee camps, and the U.S. resettlement process
- Inspired by Pope Francis, Shafaq has dedicated his career to assisting migrants and refugees navigate their new lives in America
From Afghanistan to America: A Refugee’s Journey
Khaibar Shafaq fled Afghanistan and the Taliban in 2021, arriving in the United States as a refugee seeking safety and a new beginning. His personal experience navigating the challenges of displacement and resettlement shaped his understanding of the refugee journey. Now serving as the Director of Migration and Refugee Services for Catholic Charities of Owensboro, Shafaq has transformed his own difficult experience into a mission to help others facing similar circumstances. His path from refugee to advocate demonstrates how personal hardship can evolve into purposeful service for vulnerable populations.
Finding Purpose Through Service
After arriving in America, Shafaq initially worked as a tornado relief case manager, helping communities recover from natural disasters. This experience provided him valuable insights into crisis management and community support systems operating in the United States. He later expanded his service by assisting African refugees with asylum and immigration paperwork, developing expertise in the complex legal processes that refugees must navigate. In October 2024, Catholic Charities of Owensboro recognized his dedication and expertise by appointing him as director of their new Migration and Refugee Services division.
Shafaq found inspiration in an unexpected source – Pope Francis and the Catholic Church’s mission of service to the vulnerable. Despite coming from Afghanistan, a predominantly Muslim country, Shafaq embraced the universal values of compassion and service that transcend religious boundaries. His work with Catholic Charities demonstrates how faith-based organizations continue to play a crucial role in America’s response to global humanitarian crises, providing both practical assistance and spiritual support to those rebuilding their lives.
Sharing Knowledge With The Community
On April 30 at 7 p.m., Shafaq will present “Understanding the Refugee Journey and the Resettlement Process” at Owensboro Community and Technical College. The event, organized by the Owensboro Area World Affairs Council (OAWAC), aims to educate the public about refugee experiences. Attendees will learn about global displacement causes, conditions in refugee camps, the thorough U.S. vetting process, integration challenges, and community support systems. The comprehensive presentation will include video elements, followed by an opportunity for audience questions.
The free public event will provide community members with factual information about refugee resettlement at a time when immigration remains a contentious national issue. By sharing both his personal story and professional expertise, Shafaq offers a unique perspective that bridges policy discussions with human experience. The presentation addresses practical concerns while highlighting the contributions refugees make to their new communities once given opportunity and support.
Building Community Support For Refugees
Through his leadership at Catholic Charities, Shafaq emphasizes the importance of community involvement in successful refugee integration. The resettlement process extends far beyond initial arrival, requiring ongoing support networks as families adapt to new languages, customs, educational systems, and employment opportunities. Catholic Charities’ work demonstrates how public-private partnerships can effectively address humanitarian needs while strengthening local communities through cultural diversity and economic contributions from new residents.
Those interested in learning more about refugee resettlement work in Kentucky or attending the April 30 event can find additional details on the Owensboro Area World Affairs Council’s Facebook page. The presentation offers an opportunity for community members to gain accurate information about refugee processes and consider how they might support these efforts through volunteer work, donations, or simply greater understanding of their new neighbors’ experiences and potential contributions to American society.
