Networks and cities' news

WELDI guidance on setting up one-stop-shops for migrants

Portrait Series #4: Education as Empowerment: Yahya Al-Abdullah's Path from Aleppo to Paris in Advocacy for Migrants’ Rights

Yahya Al-Abdullah's life journey is a testament to the transformative power of education and an unwavering commitment to advocating for migrant rights amidst global challenges. Born in a small Syrian village, Yahya's quest for knowledge led him from Aleppo to cities across Asia and Europe. His academic pursuits in English and public policy were profoundly shaped by the Arab Spring, where he passionately protested against authoritarianism and witnessed Syria's descent into “internationalized war” as he puts it. Forced to leave his homeland in 2012, Yahya embarked on a journey through Georgia, Istanbul, Budapest, and finally Paris, each step influencing his dedication to migrant education and advocacy. His journey reflects personal resilience and a relentless pursuit to bridge gaps and foster inclusive societies in the face of complex migration dynamics across Europe.

Portrait Series #3: From Jordan to Romania: Esraa Abdallah's Journey of Resilience and Advocacy

Esraa Abdallah's journey from Jordan to Romania is a story of perseverance, adaptation, and determination. Over the last five and a half years, she has carved out a unique space for herself, both professionally and personally, in a country that was foreign to her but is now her home. Her story is not just one of migration; it’s also one of navigating complex systems, overcoming cultural barriers, and defending the rights of those who share her experience.   

Portrait Series #2: Jane's story and the Importance of Community Networks in Caring for Displaced Persons

In February 2022, the lives of countless Ukrainians were irrevocably altered by the invasion of Russian forces. Among them was Jane Rozbitskaya, a dedicated project manager from Kyiv, who, with her husband and child, was forced to flee their beloved country for safety. This is the story of their escape, the challenges they faced, and the remarkable community spirit that helped them rebuild their lives in a foreign land. From their initial days in Odesa to their eventual refuge in Timisoara, Jane's journey illustrates the courage and solidarity that can arise even in the darkest of times. 

Portrait Series #1: Cheikhou Cissé’s Journey and His Work at El Pasico

Cheikhou Cissé's journey from Senegal to Spain is a remarkable story of resilience, adaptability, and commitment to helping others. Originally an IT specialist in Dakar, Cheikhou's career took an unexpected turn when he chose to stay in Europe after a brief visit, facing the challenges of life as an undocumented migrant. Overcoming many obstacles, he found his true calling in helping newcomers, and ended up running El Pasico, an organization dedicated to helping newly arrived migrants in Spain. Cheikhou's work is not just a career but a deeply fulfilling mission, marked by his dedication to improving the lives of those facing the struggles he knows only too well. 

WELDI Journal Number 2

This update on developments in the WELDI-network includes learning points from transnational meetings on access to housing and digital inclusion, and an assessment of what WELDI partners learned from the welcoming of Ukrainian refugees.