鈥業鈥檒l become the spokesperson for everyone who needs to be heard鈥� 鈥� the refugee who fled war-torn Syria for a new life in the UK
25 January 2019
“It happened overnight. We had to leave everything behind.”
When she was just 11 years old, Marwa became one of the first people given refugee status in Scotland after fleeing her home in war-torn Syria.
Originally from Damascus – the oldest capital in the world – Marwa suffered the pain of losing her brother due to the war.
“We fled to Jordan to forget the pain of war. When we heard the news that we were coming to Scotland, I think it was the happiest moment of my life.”
The New Scots: Marwa鈥檚 Story
Marwa was only 11 when the war in Syria forced her to flee home.
“I felt worried but optimistic at the same time”
Marwa admitted there were problems when her family arrived in Scotland, especially relating to the language barrier.
Scotland embraced me when I thought I was homeless, so it feels like home to me.
Not having fluent English made school tough for her, especially when it came to reading exam questions.
But, in only a year and a half, Marwa’s English improved to a standard that allowed her to pass her exams.
“I was very proud of myself when I passed.”
Now studying media at college, Marwa is intent on using her continuing education as a platform for helping others.
“I want to become the spokesperson for everyone who needs to be heard. I will fight to achieve my dream of becoming an educated woman who is able to help others in need.”
Another young Scottish-Syrian
Salih鈥檚 incredible journey
Salih waded through sewers, slept rough and was jailed before reaching Scotland. (From 2018)
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