POYA

About POYA

POYA is a non-profit association established in 2019 in Paris, initiated by Afghans who arrived in France over 10 years ago. Its name means "dynamic" in Dari (Eastern Persian). As a grassroots collective, meaning it was formed by those directly concerned, we have a deep understanding of the challenges migrants face, whether they are newly arrived, asylum seekers, recognized refugees, or undocumented. In addition to providing emergency assistance, we work to strengthen the autonomy of our beneficiaries and facilitate their integration. By treating them as equals, we empower them to take charge of their own integration process, which encompasses access to rights, learning French and French culture, digital literacy, and job readiness, as well as prevention actions and cultural or sports activities to combat isolation. The loneliness faced during the trials of exile can leave scars, and POYA is committed to preventing this. We also focus on supporting women, who are often more isolated and face greater barriers to integration. While our efforts are open to all who may benefit from them, in practice, the association mainly works with Afghans, Iranians, Tajiks, and Pakistanis. We also offer interpretation services in Dari, Pashto, English, and Urdu. To achieve our goals, we collaborate in Paris with the social and cultural center Espace 19, La Pépinière Mathis, France Terre d’Asile, the CADA (Center for Asylum Seekers), CASP (Protestant Social Action Center), and La Cimade.

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