Restaurant Owner Dedicates Free Time to Aid Somali Asylum Seekers
Abdninasir Kahin, owner of Safari Somali restaurant in Rogers Park, Chicago, is increasingly busy volunteering as an advocate and interpreter for Somali asylum seekers navigating the U.S. immigration system. Kahin, a Somali immigrant himself who experienced hardship upon arriving in…
Chicago, IL, August 6, 2026 —
Abdninasir Kahin, owner of the Safari Somali restaurant located in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood, is dedicating significant personal time to assist Somali asylum seekers. Kahin is increasingly occupied with volunteer work, acting as an advocate and interpreter for individuals navigating the complexities of the U.S. immigration system.
As a Somali immigrant who personally faced challenges upon his arrival in the United States, Kahin understands the difficulties faced by new arrivals. This firsthand experience fuels his commitment to helping his community. He offers his services pro bono, meaning without charge, to support asylum seekers through various essential processes.
Kahin’s volunteer efforts encompass a range of critical needs for the community. He assists asylum seekers with attending court hearings, a process that often requires specific legal understanding and language interpretation. Additionally, he aids them in their job searches, helping them find employment opportunities as they begin to establish themselves in their new environment. His work also extends to facilitating community integration, ensuring that new arrivals can connect with resources and feel more at home.
The motivation behind Kahin’s dedication stems from his own past experiences and a strong desire to ensure that others receive fair treatment and justice within the immigration system. His commitment provides a vital support network for a vulnerable population in Chicago.
Story summarized from the original created by Ben Lauren on blockclubchicago.org, see more information here.
