“Yes, I could have finished my studies 4 years but it has been 7 years and I’m about to graduate. I needed time to face my demons. When I started I was only 20 years old and barely knew anything about life or who I was. Education is a way to grow and learn but it’s not the only form. Sometimes you need to live a little in order to find yourself. I needed those extra years to become the person that I am today. So you ask me what happened.. I guess life is what happened.”

It was quit hard to get them all looking at me so the oldest boy on the right with his thumb up helped me putting everyone in position. After taking their photo he asked me: “Did I do a good job?”. I told him he did a great job. Then he told his brothers and sister: “Guys! We did great!” He turned around to me and said: “I hope you have a very nice day ma’am.”

Joaquin (left): “I met Mohamed a few days ago. I educate refugees on Dutch culture. Instead of starting my previous class with all the do’s and don’ts of this country I asked everyone about their profession. I wanted to amplify the fact that everyone’s identity is much broader than being a refugee. When it was Mohamed’s turn he told us that he used to be a part of the National Syrian Gymnastic team. After the class I contacted one of my friend’s who owns a gym and told him about Mohamed. He immediately suggested Mohamed would come over and train at his club. Mohamed now has free access to his gym so he can stay in shape. I hope one day Mohamed will be part of the Dutch national team.”