Torpekai Mohmand is the Regional Executive Director of Lifting Humanity, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to supporting refugees in Utah and California through numerous educational, financial, social, and emotional programs and services. Torpekai also migrated from Afghanistan to the United States at 12 years old.

As the Regional Executive Director of Lifting Humanity and an Afghan refugee herself, Torpekai Mohmand has extensive firsthand experience with the young female Afghan population in the United States. Although many Afghan women arrive to continue their education, adjusting to a new culture and language can make that transition difficult. Torpekai noted that being seperated from extended family and adjusting the culture in which people spend more time in their homes rather than within their community can contribute to feelings of loneliness. While many of the girls hope to attend community college once they migrate, they have to simultaneously balance learning English, obtaining a driver’s license, and working to support their families. Often working numerous jobs to meet their family’s needs, they may have limited time to enhance their skills or attend school. Despite these challenges, Torpekai emphasizes the resilience of Afghan girls. She said “I’m pleasantly surprised. A lot of the ladies come and ask for us to find them a job. They want to work. They see it as an opportunity to care for their family.” Torpekai also believes in the importance of collaboration and coordination among non-profit organizations. She explained, “We don’t have to recreate something that someone’s already doing. There are so many services, but it’s a matter of connecting them.” Although numerous organizations provide services for Afghan refugees, many young women still struggle to access these because language barriers, limited transportation, and unfamiliarity with resources. According to Torpekai, the most beneficial resources are culturally and linguistically appropriate as refugees are more likely to seek them. She said, “It’s easier to go to somebody who speaks your language, understands your culture, and to feel supported by them.”