Key Takeaways

• A 29-year-old Afghan man moved in 2021 and felt deep isolation.
• He grew apart from family and local community over time.
• Language hurdles made daily life harder for him.
• His mental health suffered as loneliness rose.
• Community groups later offered vital support.

Rahmanull

ah Lakanwal’s Journey in a New Country

When Rahmanullah Lakanwal arrived from Afghanistan in 2021, he carried hope and dreams. He was 29 years old and ready to start a new life. However, life in a foreign land proved harder than expected. He missed family gatherings, shared meals, and familiar faces. Instead, he faced empty streets and unclear signs. His new home felt silent.

Isolation of Rahmanullah Lakanwal

Soon after moving, he tried reaching out. Yet, he found it hard to connect. He missed his mother’s cooking and his siblings’ laughter. Despite living in a busy neighborhood, he felt alone. For several months, he went days without speaking to anyone. He studied English on his own and sent messages home. Still, he sensed a growing gap.

Early Life and Hopes

Back in Afghanistan, he worked as a teacher’s assistant. He loved guiding children through lessons. He pictured himself teaching in his new homeland, too. He imagined making friends at local cafes. He thought people would welcome him warmly. Yet, reality felt different. Crowded buses and fast conversations made him shy away. He longed for the familiar patter of his native tongue.

Challenges After 2021 Arrival

After arriving, he faced housing issues. His first apartment had no heating. He spent cold nights alone, reading by phone light. He applied for work permits and waited. He missed deadlines because he did not fully understand emails. He tried attending local events but felt like an outsider. He sensed people stared at him. These doubts weighed heavily on his mind.

Language Barriers and Loneliness

Language issues added to his struggle. He could speak basic English, but not enough to hold long talks. He often smiled when he did not understand. He avoided phone calls and hurried written notes. As a result, he missed out on group gatherings. His social circle shrank. Over time, he stopped attending community meetings. Loneliness became his daily companion.

Seeking Support in the Community

Thankfully, a local charity noticed newcomers in need. They invited him to a weekly meetup. At first, he stayed silent at the back. But he soon opened up. He shared his story with a small group. They offered language classes and a hot meal. He met other immigrants who felt the same way. This support gave him new energy. He started to smile again.

Building New Connections

With help, he found a part-time job at a bakery. His coworkers taught him slang and jokes. He practiced English while serving coffee. He found joy in kneading dough and decorating pastries. His mornings filled with friendly chats. Gradually, he began inviting neighbors to try his baked goods. His small shop became a meeting point. Strangers became friends.

Impact on Mental Health

Isolation hurt his mental health deeply. He often felt anxious and restless. He lost sleep worrying about being forgotten. Yet, as he connected with others, his mood improved. He learned simple techniques to calm his mind. He took short walks and wrote in a journal. He realized that sharing his feelings could lift his spirits.

Lessons for Others

His story shows how important community can be. It reminds us to check on new neighbors. A small act of kindness can change a life. Language lessons, hot meals, or a friendly chat make a big difference. For example, inviting someone to dinner can help them feel at home. In turn, they may share their culture and enrich our lives.

Moving Forward with Hope

Today, Rahmanullah Lakanwal feels more at ease. He hosts a small weekly gathering at the bakery. He teaches simple phrases in his native language. He practices English with visitors. He still misses home, but he no longer feels isolated. He knows he can reach out when times get tough. He now believes that hope can grow in any place.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did he first cope with the loneliness?

He coped by learning English, reading, and sending messages home. Yet, these steps did not fully ease his sense of isolation until he joined a local support group.

What role did community groups play in his life?

Community groups offered language classes, meals, and friendship. They created safe spaces where he felt seen and heard. This support helped him rebuild his confidence and mental health.

What can others do to help newcomers feel welcome?

You can start by greeting them, inviting them for coffee, or offering language practice. Simple actions, like sharing information about local events, can help them feel part of the community.

What lasting impact did his journey have?

His journey taught him resilience and empathy. It showed him the power of human connection. Now, he shares this lesson by helping other newcomers find belonging. Source: https://www.nydailynews.com/2025/11/30/national-guard-shooting-suspect-radicalized-us/