Fatherhood Reimagined: Building Trust, Respect, and Family Connection

B. W. came to the United States in August 2024 with his wife and four children after the Taliban takeover. Like many other refugees, he carried the heavy weight of responsibility, providing for his family in a new country, facing language barriers, economic pressure, and the struggle of starting from zero. Failing to find stable work left him feeling hopeless. At home, these frustrations sometimes turned into shouting during small disagreements with his wife or children. He believed that strictness was the only way to maintain respect and order in the family.

When B. W. joined the Fathers2Child Program, he slowly found comfort in meeting other Afghan fathers who shared the same struggles. He realized he was not alone. Through the sessions, he learned valuable skills for managing anger and improving communication. He discovered that raising his voice or punishing harshly did not guide his children, it distanced them. Instead, listening with patience and showing support built stronger trust.

The program also connected him with resources beyond parenting. One father took him to a local gym, another taught him how to earn income through Uber food delivery, and the program helped him enroll in a housing support program that provided rental assistance for one year.

When asked in a session about how he felt and what benefits he had gained, B. W. smiled and said:

“Father class saved my life and helped me to be a better father to my kids and a more respectful husband to my wife. Now, there is no fight between us.”

Since then, B. W. has transformed his family life. He spends more time talking with his children, taking them to the park, playing soccer, and encouraging them in their studies. His home is no longer filled with arguments but with laughter and connection.

B. W.’s story shows that fatherhood is not about control, but about guidance, love, and partnership. His journey inspires other Afghan fathers to manage stress in healthier ways, build stronger relationships with their families, and find hope in their new community.