Stories

We're celebrating former refugees who were essential workers during COVID-19 lockdowns. Meet Najmo, a caregiver, a compassionate supporter, a former refugee, a Kiwi and a COVID-19 essential worker.

We're celebrating former refugees who were essential workers during COVID-19 lockdowns. Meet Paul Kumbuka, a community support worker, an advocate, a forme refugee, a Kiwi and a COVID-19 essential worker.

We're celebrating former refugees who were essential workers during COVID-19 lockdowns. Meet Aziz Al Sa’afin, broadcaster, a storyteller, a former refugee, a Kiwi and a COVID-19 essential worker.

We're celebrating former refugees who were essential workers during COVID-19 Alert Level 3 and 4 lockdown. Meet Maria, a former refugee, a housekeeper, a mother and a COVID-19 essential worker.

This World Refugee Day, 20 June, New Zealand Red Cross recognises the invaluable contributions former refugees across Aotearoa have made in bringing our communities together during New Zealand’s toughest times.

As we celebrate Dunedin turning five as a refugee settlement location, we have met young people with refugee backgrounds who told us how life in Dunedin is going and what their hopes and dreams are.

It took years for Alia Al Mohamad to build her successful career in Syria, but the war took it all away. Thankfully, her passion and fortitude were left intact.

Two years ago, a young former refugee named Eyob Jambo Teshome was about to embark on the next stage of his settlement journey: attending university. This was made possible with the support of a scholarship from Beca, and now, Eyob and Beca share how it’s all going.

Nisrine Zarzar’s story is one that makes your heart clench, highlights a mother’s instinct for survival and reminds you of how strong women can be.

Rahaf Almabaid, a talented writer and student, will tackle any challenges that come her way to reach her dreams.

This month marks 10 years since the conflict started, triggering more than five million people to flee the bombs and bullets and escape across borders. Millions more have been displaced inside Syria and are still in dire need of assistance. As the war continues, hope is fading fast.

Ali Mashal was separated from his family at the age of 15 when he was forced to flee Afghanistan. His story is one of survival, hope and determination.