A large gathering of Afghan families was held in Sacramento at the initiative of the MAS Social Services Foundation (MAS-SSF), bringing together community members for a day of educational, cultural, and family-centered activities.
The event opened with remarks from Gulshan Yousafzai, Executive Director of MAS-SSF, who highlighted the organization’s mission, programs, and accomplishments. She said the foundation carries out its work with a team of 23 staff members and more than 100 volunteers, focusing primarily on improving mental health and strengthening family well-being within the community.
Yousafzai also emphasized the importance of preserving Afghan culture, language, religious values, and identity. She encouraged immigrant families to maintain their cultural heritage while preparing their children to succeed in American society and adapt to the country’s educational and social systems.
A short documentary showcasing MAS-SSF’s programs, community services, and achievements was screened for attendees following the opening remarks.
Naveed Ghiathi, Program Manager at MAS-SSF, then addressed the audience, expressing appreciation for the strong turnout, the dedication of volunteers, and the enthusiastic participation of Afghan families.
The event also featured a panel discussion moderated by journalist Jamal Naser Farahmand, bringing together several accomplished Afghan-American professionals to share their personal and professional journeys.
Panelists included Yousuf Karimi of the police department, Farzan Farzad of the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), Shakeeb Ehsas, a Reintegration Program Specialist with World Relief, and university students Maryam Kawosh and Mastoora Mateen. They discussed their immigration experiences, educational paths, professional careers, and the factors that contributed to their success. The session concluded with a question-and-answer segment, allowing audience members to engage directly with the speakers.
In addition to the panel discussion, participants attended two educational workshops focusing on “Understanding Rights and Responsibilities” and “Strengthening Intergenerational Family Relationships.” The gathering also featured cultural performances and artistic presentations.
During the final segment of the program, Dr. Khadeer Raja, a representative of Miracle University, introduced the university’s educational opportunities and announced its readiness to support young people whose education had been interrupted for various reasons.
The event concluded with a raffle drawing and the presentation of prizes to participating families.
