The U.S. Embassy evacuated Waranga, her husband and their four young children from Afghanistan on short notice when the Taliban retook the country in 2021.
Her husband had worked with the embassy, and she worked at a private school. They left for their personal safety and for their daughters’ future because, under the Taliban, women are not allowed to go to school or have a job.
“The transition was challenging, and it took time to adjust here. But I’m thankful and I’m happy that now we are safe, and my kids will have a good future, and my daughter can go to school and whatever they want to become.”
For the first few years, Waranga concentrated on helping her family by staying home with her kids. When she decided it was time to restart her career and support her family financially, she turned to The ILC for help.
Although Waranga taught English in Afghanistan, she was not conversationally fluent, and she’s not certified to teach in the United States. In The ILC Next Steps class she was able to improve her conversation skills, learn to use a Chromebook and, crucially, was introduced to Boston Public Schools paraprofessional program. Once she completes the program, Waranga will be able to work in Boston schools with kindergartners or preschoolers. She hopes to continue her education and become a social studies teacher.
Education is a gift that multiplies. By supporting The ILC, you’ve not only made a big difference for Waranga and her family, but you’ve also helped all the future students she may teach.