From Hiding Heritage to Proud Advocate: Mr. Wahab’s Journey as an Afghan Refugee Son

In a climate where discussions surrounding immigration and identity often evoke polarized opinions, the story of Mr. Wahab stands as a poignant reminder of the complexities faced by the children of refugees. Mr. Wahab, who has recently embraced his identity as the son of Afghan refugees, reflects on a journey that has seen him transform from a boy who felt compelled to hide his heritage into a proud advocate for his community. Growing up in the aftermath of 9/11, Mr. Wahab experienced firsthand the hostility directed towards people of colour. His parents, seeking to shield their children from the negative perceptions associated with being refugees, encouraged them to downplay their true identity. “We used to say we were Pakistani or Turkish instead of saying we were Afghan,” he shared, underscoring the pressure to conform in a society rife with prejudice. This secrecy, he admits, weighed heavily on him, creating a dissonance between his background and the image he projected to the world. It wasn’t until last year that Mr. Wahab publicly acknowledged his roots. The catalyst for this revelation came as he observed a surge in online hate directed towards minorities and refugees. “I saw that the hate towards people of colour and refugees was getting so bad, that I thought I should share my story and the person running this account is actually a son of refugees,” he explained. His Instagram page, launched in 2019, gained traction, especially during 2020, allowing him to connect with others who share similar experiences. Despite the challenges he faced growing up, Mr. Wahab is quick to point out that his family worked tirelessly to carve out a life filled with opportunity. After obtaining British status in 2007, his parents instilled in him the importance of hard work and resilience. “I am pretty proud of it,” he declares, referring to his heritage, as he aims to reshape the narrative surrounding refugees. He argues that they are “just normal people, not a threat to anyone,” and emphasizes their contributions to society as taxpayers and community members. Looking ahead, Mr. Wahab is not only focused on his personal journey but also on the broader implications of representation in politics. “I do want to be an MP,” he states, believing that true change can only be enacted through Parliament. His aspirations signal a commitment to advocating for policies that support immigrants and minorities, aiming to foster a more inclusive society. As Mr. Wahab continues to navigate his identity and ambitions, his story resonates with many who have similarly felt the weight of societal prejudice. His courage to embrace his past serves as an inspiration, reminding us that the voices of refugees and their descendants are essential in shaping a diverse and equitable future. In a world still grappling with racism and xenophobia, Mr. Wahab embodies the hope that comes from understanding, acceptance, and pride in one’s heritage.