Forced to flee. Empower to fly.
A heartfelt welcome to the WSAR (Women Support Afghan Refugees)
Association!
We are honored to have you here. WSAR (وزر), meaning “Wing” in Pashto, symbolizes freedom, hope, and empowerment. We are a non-profit organization dedicated to helping refugees connect, learn, and thrive as they settle into life in Switzerland, supporting them on their journey to build new lives.
Our Mission
WSAR is a non-profit association dedicated to supporting and empowering refugees. Our mission is to create spaces for learning, cultural exchange, and mutual support, fostering psychosocial wellbeing and personal growth. We collaborate with organizations and civil society partners to enhance refugee support and promote successful integratin. We promote integration through language courses, cultural activities, workshops, and we encourage refugees to share their skills and experiences. WSAR stands for the rights and dignity of Afghan women
Our Projects
Tea & Talk – Women Empowerment Project
Creating Learning and Safe Spaces for Women
Tea & Talk is a dedicated initiative under the Women Empowerment Project, designed to provide women from all backgrounds and nationalities with a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment. This space encourages connection, personal growth, and mutual support, while fostering creativity and skill development.
Participants are invited to:
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Share experiences and stories: Discuss challenges, successes, and everyday experiences in a judgment-free and inclusive environment.
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Engage in creative activities: Explore handicrafts such as crochet, knitting, and other artistic projects that promote relaxation, focus, and self-expression.
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Build supportive networks: Connect with women from different cultures and communities, exchange advice, and create lasting friendships and mentorship opportunities.
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Learn and grow: Attend workshops, discussions, and sessions designed to build confidence, skills, and knowledge in a variety of areas.
Tea & Talk is more than just a meeting space — it is a community where every woman is empowered, celebrated, and supported, regardless of her background. Here, women can express themselves freely, strengthen their abilities, and inspire each other toward growth and independence.
German Language Course in the Mother Tongue
German Classes with Pashto and Dari Support
This program provides safe, and empowering spaces for refugee women to learn German with explanations in Pashto and Dari. It equips participants with the language skills and confidence needed to navigate everyday life, access essential services, and fully engage in their communities.
Program Highlights:
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Practical Language Skills: Learn German for daily life, work, education, and community interactions.
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Bilingual Support: Explanations in Pashto and Dari make learning accessible and effective.
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Confidence and Independence: Structured lessons and practice foster self-reliance, personal growth, and decision-making abilities.
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Community Building: Connect with women from diverse backgrounds, forming supportive networks and encouraging peer learning.
This initiative goes beyond teaching language — it builds empowerment, strengthens social cohesion, and promotes full participation in society. By empowering refugee women to overcome barriers, it contributes to supportive communities and sustainable social integration.
Cultural & Culinary Exchange
This program brings people together through shared cultural experiences and hands-on cooking activities, creating a welcoming space where participants can connect, and learn. By exploring traditions, stories, and flavors from different cultures, the initiative fosters mutual understanding, strengthens social bonds, and builds a sense of community.
Program Highlights:
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Shared Cultural Experiences: Engage in discussions and activities that celebrate the heritage, customs, and traditions of all participants.
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Hands-On Cooking Workshops: Learn to prepare traditional dishes while exchanging culinary knowledge and skills.
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Storytelling and Connection: Share personal stories, cultural insights, and family traditions in a supportive and inclusive environment.
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Community Building: Create meaningful connections across cultures, encouraging dialogue, friendship, and mutual respect.
This initiative goes beyond cooking and cultural exchange — it nurtures understanding, encourages collaboration, and empowers participants, fostering a stronger, more connected community.
Workshops & Trainings
This program offers practical workshops and training sessions designed to equip women with essential skills for everyday life, housing, career development, and personal health. Each session provides hands-on guidance in a supportive and inclusive environment, helping participants build confidence, independence, and the ability to navigate complex systems.
Program Highlights:
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Alltagsorganisation (Daily Life Skills): Learn how to schedule and manage appointments with authorities, doctors, and other services, and improve communication through professional email writing.
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(Housing Guidance (Wohnungssuche) : Receive practical tips for finding accommodation, complete necessary forms, use online platforms effectively, and communicate with landlords.
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Gesundheit & Vorsorge (Health & Preventive Care): Learn about maternal and reproductive health, how to navigate doctor visits, and understand the importance of preventive medical check-ups.
These workshops go beyond skill-building — they empower women to take control of their daily lives, make informed decisions, and actively participate in their communities. By combining practical knowledge with a supportive environment, participants leave the program with greater confidence, stronger networks, and enhanced opportunities for personal and social growth.
Rooted in the Refugee Experience
WSAR was created on a deep understanding of the refugee journey, the challenges, the dreams, and the determination to rebuild. It exists to transform struggle into empowerment and to help others find their wings in a new home. From this shared journey, WSAR was founded in August 2025 as a space where refugees from all backgrounds can find support, encouragement, and opportunities for growth. We are a team of volunteers, most of whom have personally experienced the refugee journey, working with dedication and compassion. We offer language courses, cultural activities, workshops, and spaces for learning, exchange, and personal development. Every program reflects the belief that refugees can rebuild their lives while contributing positively to the communities they join. At WSAR, we are committed to uplifting refugees, Afghan women, fostering community while creating opportunities that empower individuals to overcome challenges and embrace new beginnings in Switzerland.
Our Cultural Identity and Community Engagement
Our programs are open to everyone, regardless of background, nationality, language, or culture. We believe in creating spaces where all refugees feel welcome, supported, and included. At the same time, as an Afghan association, we place special importance on preserving, strengthening, and Uplifting Afghan Voices and Cultural Identity. Our work reflects the unique needs, experiences, and strengths of the Afghan community, while also fostering dialogue and connection with people from all cultures. Through our programs, we aim to: Offer activities that reflect Afghan traditions, values, and stories Create a sense of belonging for Afghan women and families Strengthen identity, confidence, and community cohesion Build bridges between cultures through shared experiences, language learning, and exchange Our goal is to ensure that Afghan culture is recognized, respected, and kept alive, while also promoting an open, inclusive environment where everyone can learn, connect, and thrive together.