Abbas Nazari - Escaping the Taliban, Life as a Refugee in Christchurch & The Tampa Affair

ABBAS NAZARI

When the Taliban were at the height of their power in 2001, Abbas was 7 years old. By the time he arrived in New Zealand as a refugee almost a year later, he was 8. What happened in between is nothing short of incredible. The fact the Nazari family survived the journey was one thing. But they have done much better than that- they have thrived!

Abbas shares his memories of escaping the Taliban as a little boy with little more than the clothes on his back, being adrift in the middle of the Indian ocean in an overcrowded rickety wooden boat that was most definitely not sea-worthy, in fact it was literally falling apart. 

Then getting rescued by a big shipping boat called the Tampa and becoming part of an international standoff before finding home in NZ as a refuge.

Somehow, against all odds, Abbas who spoke no English when he touched down here went on to get a podium finish in a secondary schools spelling bee, played rugby (and even claims he taught Richie Mo’unga how to kick LOL). He also got a degree, was awarded a scholarship in Washington DC and now runs his own business.

That’s not all! He’s also an in demand public speaker, and he has written a great book called “After The Tampa.” Which covers his life story in much greater detail than a long form podcast can do. If you love this chat and you’re keen for more, google that. 

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