Rashwan supports Ali: ‘As long as he is here, we feel safe’

Rashwan (60) and Ali (46) sit next to each other in a small room in the Wassenaar Refugee Council office. “How are you today, Ali? Are the children used to their new school yet?” asks Rashwan. Ali nods. “We are doing well, thank God. A fortnight ago, my son finally got permission to go to school. That feels like a piece of our future can really begin.”

Ali, a Kurdish textile trader, fled Syria with his family. “When my sons reached the age of military service, I fled to Iraqi Kurdistan with my wife and children.” It was a time of waiting and much worry. Their eldest son had already fled to the Netherlands. Thanks to family reunification, they were able to join him and start a new life here.

Ali's first days in the Netherlands also began with waiting: this time for a house. “When we finally got this house in Wassenaar, fortunately we also got support. Because that's when you came into our lives, Rashwan.”

Giving something back

Rashwan himself knows what it is like to start over in a foreign country. In 1998, he fled from Iraq. He has never forgotten the help he received in learning Dutch and integrating.

“I wanted to give something back. That's why I work as a volunteer with Refugee Council. For more than 20 years, I have accompanied others in their first steps in the municipality of Wassenaar.” His efforts as an interpreter and social worker even earned him a royal honour in December.

Indispensable guide

For Ali and his family, Rashwan is an indispensable guide. He helps with information on schools, public transport, explains the difference between insurances ánd bridges language and cultural differences. Ali smiles as he recalls a misunderstanding. “Remember when we got this house? My family is big - six people - and the house felt so small. I had heard that you were the boss. That if we refused the house, we might get a bigger one!”

Rashwan chuckles. Ali continues: “Rashwan explained to us that the Netherlands is small and housing is scarce. That day, I understood that he was not just another employee of Refugee Council - he really cares about us. He is a wonderful person who is always on our side.”

Ali looks at Rashwan gratefully. “Your presence is a comfort. As long as you are here, we feel safe. You understand our emotions and confusion in this new country. We have a thousand questions, but you remain patient. We can always come to you.”

Besides emotional support, Ali and his family also receive practical help. The family even gets a bicycle sponsored. Rashwan also helps Ali pursue a dream. “I told Rashwan that I wanted to rent a piece of land to grow crops,” Ali says. “He helped with the paperwork and even arranged volunteer work at a local shop. He really wants us to become self-reliant.”

A friend, an older brother

What Ali appreciates most is Rashwan's honesty. “Two days ago, our door broke down. I immediately called Rashwan. I thought he would say the municipality would fix it, but he simply said, ‘Ali, the repair is your responsibility’. My respect for him grew as a result. He is honest and we are learning what it means to take responsibility.”

Then he looks straight at Rashwan. “You are more than a volunteer for us. Because we know that no one else helps us with the same honesty and care. You are a friend, an elder brother, a guide. You have turned our sense of alienation into a sense of home. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”

Rashwan smiles. Words are not necessary. The bond formed here is stronger than language.

This article previously appeared in Refugee Council magazine and on the website of Dutch Refugee Council.