From Refugee Camp to Community Leader | Hasan Khalil’s Story

What if soccer, music, and barbering could change lives? Meet Hasan Khalil — a Lincoln-based entrepreneur, Yazidi refugee, and community builder who is using his passions to bring people together. From founding a free soccer camp for immigrant and refugee youth to running a barbershop and creating deeply personal music, Hasan’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and purpose. After spending 11 years in a refugee camp, Hasan knows firsthand the challenges many families face. That’s why he created Lincoln International Football Club — a space where kids can learn, play, and access resources beyond the field. Whether he’s cutting hair, mentoring youth, or performing music rooted in Yazidi culture, everything Hasan does is about connection. This is more than a story about success — it’s about impact, identity, and building community across cultures. 👉 Watch to see how one person’s journey is changing lives in Lincoln, Nebraska. © 2026 Nebraska Public Media Foundation. All rights reserved. Learn more about the innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship across Nebraska by visiting https://NebraskaPublicMedia.org/WhatIf This video, “From Refugee Camp to Community Leader, Hasan Khalil’s Story,” is a part of the 7th season of “What If…Nebraska”. FOLLOW US: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/NebraskaPublicMedia Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NebraskaPublicMedia X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/NebPublicMedia Instagram: https://instagram.com/NebraskaPublicMedia