How Chai Khana helped Mohammed connect, learn and move forward

Chai Khana

When Mohammed first heard about SMRC’s Chai Khana program, the name was already familiar.

Before coming to Australia, Mohammed had participated in a television program in Afghanistan also called Chai Khana. Broadcast on TOLO TV, the program brought people together to share their knowledge of local communities, culture, traditions, poetry and literature.

Mohammed contributed his own knowledge of the area where he lived, including the people, customs and literary life of the community. Taking part gave him an opportunity to speak about subjects he knew well and share information with others.

Years later, it was through friends in Australia that Mohammed discovered another Chai Khana, this time at SMRC.

“When I was visiting family, one of my friends asked if I knew about Chai Khana,” he said. “He gave me the address and told me I should come and visit.”

After speaking with Afghan friends who were already attending, Mohammed decided to come along.

“It was through my friends that I was introduced to Chai Khana and SMRC.”

Reconnecting with community

Finding Chai Khana in Australia gave Mohammed a way to connect with other members of the Afghan community.

When he first arrived in Australia, Mohammed had experienced a stroke and was not in good health. He also found that there were not many Afghan community members living near his home in Clayton North.

Through Chai Khana, he met new friends and found people with whom he could talk, exchange information and share experiences of life in Australia. He said these connections played a positive role in his health and wellbeing.

“When I came to Chai Khana, I met other Afghan friends and built new connections,” Mohammed said. “Gradually, my health improved. Meeting people, talking together and sharing information made a real difference.”

Mohammed has now attended Chai Khana for four years and continues to value the friendships and sense of connection he has found through the program.

“I am very happy to keep coming to Chai Khana,” he said. “I enjoy coming here because I spend time with my friends.”

Learning about life in Australia

Chai Khana has also helped Mohammed learn more about Australian society, laws and everyday life.

Through information sessions and group activities, participants have opportunities to discuss practical topics and learn about the systems and services around them. Mohammed also took part in excursions, including visits to a museum and the Victorian Parliament.

“We learned many things at Parliament, and I went home and shared what I had learned with my family,” he said.

For Mohammed, these experiences have helped make life in Australia feel more familiar.

“Through Chai Khana, I have learned about Australian culture, society and how things work here,” he said.

Taking the road towards independence

One of the most practical changes in Mohammed’s life came through his participation in SMRC’s driving program.

After attending several sessions, he continued his learning through a driving school. With encouragement and support, Mohammed went on to obtain his driver licence and buy a car.

“Everything started here at SMRC,” he said. “The program encouraged me to begin learning to drive.”

Being able to drive has made it easier for Mohammed to travel, attend programs and take part in community life.

“I’m very happy now. I have my licence, I can drive and I have my own car,” he said. “I’m very grateful to SMRC because this is where it all began for me.”

From rediscovering a familiar Chai Khana in a new country to building friendships, learning about Australian life and gaining the independence to drive, Mohammed’s experience reflects the difference that trusted community connections and practical support can make.

If you are interested to learn more about our programs and services, contact us directly at communications@smrc.org.au or why not make a donation that will go towards reaching more locals in our community.

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