Nasirullah Safi
Results-driven Multilingual Case Manager, Employment Coordinator, Certified Medical Interpreter, Court and Legal Interpreter, and former U.S. Military wounded-Combat Interpreter with extensive experience supporting U.S. military operations during the War on Terror, refugee resettlement, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and legal systems. Proven expertise in bridging linguistic and cultural barriers, coordinating complex case management and employment services, and delivering accurate interpretation in high-pressure, mission-critical environments. Recognized for exceptional cross-cultural communication, client advocacy, crisis intervention, public speaking, and community engagement. Committed to providing equitable, client-centered services while fostering collaboration among diverse populations and multidisciplinary teams. Professional with strong background in case management, prepared to make significant impact. Proven ability to collaborate with teams and adapt to changing needs. Skilled in client assessment, resource coordination, and crisis intervention. Reliable and results-focused, with commitment to achieving positive outcomes.
Work History
- Coordinate refugee resettlement services for new arrivals in the Greater Salem area
- Connect clients to healthcare, housing, education, and social services including employments
- Provide advocacy and ongoing case management support
- Assist clients in navigating employment systems and securing jobs
- Deliver culturally responsive services, including Traditional Health Worker support
- Provide interpretation and translation in crisis and routine situations
- Bridge communication gaps between service providers and refugee communities
- Managed HR functions including hiring, onboarding, and employee relations
- Supported organizational operations and compliance processes
- Customer Service
- Performed tree care, landscaping, irrigation, and stonework
- Maintained residential and commercial outdoor environments
- Provided real-time interpretation and translation (Pashto, Dari, English) in high-risk environments
- Supported U.S. military personnel, government officials, and coalition forces
- Advised on Afghan culture, politics, and regional dynamics
- Translated sensitive documents and participated in high-level meetings
- Facilitated communication between U.S. forces and local communities
- Acted as liaison between military, Afghan leadership, and foreign dignitaries
- Supported media and public communication efforts
- Demonstrated adaptability, discretion, and professionalism under pressure
Education
Associate of Science
Bachelor of Arts - Journalism
High School Diploma
Skills
Accomplishments
- Public Speaking & Advocacy
- Speakers:
- Speaker at Duke University
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- Toyota Veterans Association
- COSA
- Recognized as one of Oregon’s Inspirational Speakers (2023)
- Delivered talks on refugee resettlement, wartime interpreters, and immigrant experiences
- Engaged with policymakers and media to advocate for interpreters and refugee communities
- Board Member– Office of the Oregon Secretary of State
- Board Member– Oregon Department of Education (ODE)
- National Veterans Memorial Museum (Columbus, Ohio)
- The Immigration Story
- The Orgonians
Timeline
Publications
- Author of:
- Get the Terp Up Here! An intimate View of the War as Seen Through the Eyes of Interpreter to U.S Forces in Afghanistan.
- Indispensable: Tale of a Military Interpreter, A War Lived Through Two Languages
- A Thousand Miles to Freedom: An Afghan Girl’s Journey From Afghanistan to Europe.
- Published articles in platforms including Military Times, (Army Times, US Air Force, US Navy)
Media & Community Engagement
- Featured in national and international media outlets
- Contributor to refugee advocacy and storytelling initiatives
- Active in community programs supporting immigrants and veterans