In a quiet corner of St. Louis, something beautiful is taking shape, a small but powerful movement to keep Afghan culture alive through the art of jewelry. Zyvara & Co., founded by Sodaba Barnayar, is more than a brand; it’s a bridge between heritage and modern expression. The idea was born from a simple question: “Why should our culture only […]
St. Louis is home to many talented Afghan entrepreneurs who are working hard to build successful businesses. These business owners are not only skilled professionals, but they also care deeply about their community. They offer high-quality services and products with honesty, creativity, and passion. These businesses were chosen as winners of the Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant, a special program supported by […]
When I reflect on my life before 2021, I remember stability, purpose, and hope for the future. I worked at Rahnaward University in Mazar-e-Sharif, Balkh Province, a vibrant financial hub in northern Afghanistan, serving in the Student Affairs Department. Prior to that, I had the privilege of working with the International Security Assistance Forces (ISAF), contributing to the vision of […]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE US Afghan Chamber of Commerce St. Louis, MO — November 27, 2025 The US Afghan Chamber of Commerce is deeply saddened and distressed by the tragic shooting that occurred in Washington, D.C. Our thoughts are with the Guardsmen, their families, and all those affected. No one, least of all men and women actively serving their country, should […]
The Afghan Chamber of Commerce in St. Louis reached a new milestone on August 28, 2025, when it held an important board meeting at the Afghan Community Center to elect its new leadership team. The event was marked by strong community participation, with more than 20 people many of them previous leaders and active members of the community coming together […]
In May, St. Louis, Missouri, was hit by a powerful storm with heavy rain, strong winds, and even a confirmed tornado. It caused a lot of damage to the city. Sadly, at least five people died, and 38 others were injured. Around 5,000 buildings were damaged, and tens of thousands of residents lost electricity. The storm also brought down many […]
The Afghan Chamber of Commerce in St. Louis reached a new milestone on August 28, 2025, when it held an important board meeting at the Afghan Community Center to elect its new leadership team. The event was marked by strong community participation, with more than 20 people many of them previous leaders and active members of the community coming together […]
Reading is one of the most important skills a child can learn, and public libraries offer many wonderful books to help children grow into strong readers. Starting early is the key. Experts say that reading aloud to babies, even in their first months, can build the foundation for future success. Many libraries also provide “Lit Kits” — sets that include […]
The Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant is now open Deadline: October 26, 2025 The Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant supports eligible Afghan entrepreneurs in St. Louis who arrived in the U.S. after August 2021 and are starting or growing small businesses. Applicants must have a valid business license or LLC, EIN, and financial statement. Eligibility: Application Requirements: For any questions or additional information about […]
Public libraries are more than just places to borrow books. They are welcoming community centers that offer many free services to help people of all ages. If English is your second language, you will find that libraries are great places to learn, connect, and grow. Here are some of the helpful things public libraries offer. Many libraries offer job search […]
Your parents might not speak English perfectly or know every new trend. They may not always understand how things work here like you do. But what they do have is something priceless, their love, their hard work, and their experience. They’ve made many sacrifices to give you a chance at a better life.
Facts about Housing in St. Louis you Might not Know Afghan Support Program attempts to assist Afghan families willing to relocate to St. Louis. But how? The International Institute of St. Louis (IISTL) helps find housing for new arrivals. Here we explore the process more deeply. Basically, there are two main sources for finding houses. IISTL has expanded its network […]
Starting a Business in St. Louis: The Journey of Zahra Mosawi, Afghan Woman Entrepreneur When Zahra Mosawi arrived in St. Louis, she carried more than just suitcases. She carried dreams—dreams of building a new life, contributing to her community, and carving out her own path as a businesswoman. Like many newcomers, Zahra faced uncertainty and the challenge of figuring out […]
Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant – Round 8 Now Open The Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant is here to support eligible Afghan entrepreneurs in St. Louis who arrived in the U.S. after August 2021. This grant is designed to help you start or grow your small business. To qualify, you must have: Take the next step toward building your business—apply today! Application link: Afghan […]
As the sun rises on August 17th, 2023, a new chapter of hope and opportunity begins for the Afghan diaspora in America. Moji Sidiqi, the visionary Afghan Community Development Program Manager, and Hamdullah Hamdard, the dynamic Afghan Support Communications Manager, kickstart a monumental journey that spans across some of the most vibrant Afghan-populated cities in the United States. Their mission: […]
In the bustling heart of St. Louis, a group of ambitious immigrants is carving out new paths for themselves, all thanks to the transformative power of coding. These individuals, fresh faces in the city, have found a promising future after graduating from a developer boot camp at Claim Academy. What paved the way for their success? It’s the innovative scholarship […]
Free Financial Literacy class We offer a free financial literacy class alongside the women’s sewing class, preparing them to start their own business once they complete the program. We offer a free financial literacy class alongside the women’s sewing class, preparing them to start their own business once they complete the program.
Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant Competition – R5 Award Ceremony The Afghan Grant Competition round 5, held at the International Institute, recognized exceptional Afghan entrepreneurs, with one notable winner being Amin Amarkhill, the founder of Handy-Fix LLC. Amin arrived in the USA on March 15, 2023, with a vision to create a meaningful business. Just a year later, in March 2024, he […]
Afghan Entrepreneurship Grant Round Five Award Ceremony The $15,000 grant, part of the Afghan Community Entrepreneurship Grant, aims to support refugees and immigrants from Afghanistan in initiating, strengthening, and expanding their businesses. This financial boost will enable newly arrived Afghan entrepreneurs to contribute to the local economy, fostering business development and generating employment opportunities for refugees, immigrants, and the broader […]