Education Versus Lost Generation!

Thirteen-year-old Ayse was only eight when she arrived in Türkiye. After years overshadowed by war, Ayse and her family were forced to seek refuge in Türkiye for a safer life. "We lost my brother in the war. It was very difficult for us. However, when we could no longer ensure our safety, our journey to Türkiye began," says Ayse.

Ayse took her first steps in Türkiye alongside her family. During their first days in Türkiye, they settled with their relatives. Her uncle’s daughters had already started school and begun learning Turkish. They were able to continue their education with the support provided by Association for Social Development and Aid Mobilization (ASAM).

Beginning education took a bit longer for Ayse. Adjusting to her new life in Türkiye, learning a new language, and coping with the losses she had experienced were not easy for her. However, ASAM's Al Farah Family Support Center became a turning point in this challenging process. Ayse, who joined the choir daily, says, "When I first went to the center, there was a choir. My peers were singing, and I was deeply impressed. During those days when everything felt unfamiliar, it was a place where I felt truly at ease. I can say that the Al Farah Family Support Center was my first school experience in Türkiye."

Ayse began attending school after spending two years at the center. Her father started working at a construction site, while her mother received psychosocial support from ASAM. Ayse tells "Life also became much easier for my mother."

Today, Ayse is one of the most enthusiastic members of the Al Farah Children's Choir. "Performing on stage and singing to hundreds of people is a wonderful experience for me. I feel very happy. I love Türkiye and I love my friends," she says.

When Ayse thought that everything had ended with the war, ASAM helped her to rediscover hope, for which she expressed her gratitude.

(Note: The real name of the beneficiary has been changed.)