After Traveling the World, Azfar Rizvi Embarks on a New Adventure in West Virginia

Azfar Rizvi is no stranger to adventure. The Pakistan native traveled the world as a journalist and documentary producer, working from conflict zones across four continents to produce content for BBC, PBS, Al-Jazeera, and other broadcast outlets. After trotting across the globe and spending time in Canada, he eventually embedded himself in the hustle and bustle of life in New York City. Then, in 2022, Azfar decided it was time for a different type of adventure: He moved to Lewisburg as part of Ascend.

"I was very intentional about leaving New York City. I wanted to experience a new lifestyle in West Virginia," Azfar says.

Azfar had never kayaked, nor did he know how to swim, when he first arrived in the Greenbrier Valley. Now he has a kayak, a newfound fondness for water, and an appetite for fresh outdoor adventures. “I trekked with a couple of fellow Ascenders for the first time ever across the Cranberry Wilderness," he says. “As a noob, I can't imagine something being so memorable and challenging at the same time!"

Since moving to West Virginia, Azfar has been enjoying the simple pleasures he had been missing in the city. “I thoroughly enjoy stargazing and tuning into the silence,” he says. “Especially since it was next to impossible to get a clear sky view and solitude in NY!” 

"I feel the time I spend with nature and animals can be very cathartic and healing," says Azfar, who befriended a horse while volunteering at a local barn. "All this nature, the river, and the wide open spaces have been great for my mental health. I also have an e-bike which comes in hand to explore the gorgeous summers."

The storyteller, who has been focusing on screenwriting and writing for AI in recent years, has been generously sharing his skills with his new community. Last year, he collaborated with local shareholders, the O School, and the Meadow River Association to produce the first of ten films to showcase post-flood work. He also delivered a storytelling and design thinking workshop during the Bridging Innovation Week in Wheeling. Azfar, whose resume includes working with Google on their Google Assistant chatbot, also spoke at Ronceverte Presbyterian Church about the intersection of AI and Faith.

In January, Azfar tapped into his other passion, cooking, when he prepared a traditional Pakistani meal (butter chicken, samosas, saffron rice, and naan) for over 300 community members at Hawk Knob Brewery. 

Meeting friendly locals has been a highlight of Azfar’s experience so far. “The people here are very kind and generous," he says. "I love the small-town vibe, and how it has helped me make new friends learning about the history of the community.”

Connect with Azfar on social media:

https://www.facebook.com/rizvi.azfar

https://www.instagram.com/doosraazfar/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/azfarrizvi/