Unfiltered: Afghan, not Dewana
“Unfiltered: Afghan, not Dewana," is a podcast that focuses on raising mental health awareness in Afghan communities and societies. Often, when we tell other Afghans or even our parents that we are "depressed" or "sad”, the word “dewana” gets thrown back at us. Dewana translates to “crazy” in Dari and each episode will help you better understand that feeling sad and depressed does not mean we are crazy. My mission is twofold: breaking cultural barriers around mental health discussions, fostering better communication amongst Afghans, and amplifying Afghan voices worldwide. Each episode brings unique guests, encouraging open conversations and sharing stories to foster empathy and unity, as well as some solo episodes. Let's embrace vulnerability, shatter boundaries, and make a difference as the proud, resilient Afghans we are. Email me at medinamua18@gmail.com with topic ideas or questions. Together, we'll grow and heal. Together, my #notdewana family we will make our culture even more beautiful than it already is.
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM @UNFILTEREDAFGHANPODCAST
Unfiltered: Afghan, not Dewana
S2E4: Afghan American Conference and Me!
Hello and Salaam my Jigars and Jaans!
Join me on this special episode as I share my wonderful journey and unforgettable moments from the Afghan-American Conference 2023, held in the vibrant city of Washington DC from June 23rd to June 25th.
Throughout the episode, I'll take you on a personal tour of the conference, describing the atmosphere, the incredible people I met, and the enlightening discussions that filled the event. As an Afghan-American myself, this conference held immense significance for me, as it provided a unique opportunity to connect with my heritage and embrace my American identity.
I'll recount the excitement and anticipation I felt leading up to the event, not knowing what to expect, but eager to immerse myself in the culture and stories of my community. From the very start, the warm hospitality of fellow attendees made me feel right at home, instantly fostering a sense of belonging.
Throughout the conference, I attended inspiring sessions that covered a wide range of topics, from preserving our cultural heritage to navigating the challenges faced by the Afghan-American diaspora. The diverse perspectives and shared experiences left a profound impact on me, reaffirming the strength and resilience of our community.
The stories of success and perseverance inspired me and reminded me of the countless possibilities that lie ahead for our community.
As I reflect on my personal encounters and conversations with fellow attendees, I'll share heartwarming and humorous anecdotes that left lasting impressions on me. The connections I made during those three days were truly invaluable, and I'll cherish the memories for a lifetime. I truly made some life long connections.
This episode is not just a summary of the Afghan-American Conference 2023; it's a celebration of the unity, diversity, and hope that thrived within those walls. Join me as I relive this extraordinary experience, and together, we'll rejoice in the shared heritage that brings us all together as one big Afghan-American diaspora. This episode is me sharing a much needed experience that brought me closer to my culture.
Follow the podcast instagram!!!!!!
https://www.instagram.com/unfilteredafghanpodcast/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D
Responsibility to our homeland causes mentioned in the episode:
https://afghan-relief.org/about/
https://aseelapp.com/
https://wiseafghanistan.org/
Afghan American Community Organization:
https://aa-co.org/
@afghanamericancommunityorg
Performers:
@hello.hosnah Violinist
@jawad.m.f Vocalist
@marwadoost Poet
@djmast.us