Hello readers, I’m Jackie. I find excitement in meeting knew people, exploring the unfamiliar, and sharing my thoughts and experiences with whoever’s interested in listening to my saga. Music, my Dad’s advice, and dictionary.com are three things I can't imagine my life without. I’m simply an open mind who’s curious about the world and hopes to make it even the slightest bit better, or at the very least, a little more entertaining.
Since the Syrian Revolution emerged in March of 2011 and the war began not long after, the dangers of war, fear of persecution, and destroyed infrastructure has forced millions out of their homes and their country. Because the number of those fleeing has climbed dramatically over the past six years, I put together an infographic to illustrate the current state of the refugee resettlement, according to recent UNHCR data and reports. While this has been deemed the largest refugee and displacement crisis of our time, it’s important to keep informed and know the facts to fully understand the magnitude of the impact. Continue reading “How Much Do You Know About the Syrian Refugees?”
Following the Free Army’s new presence in Aleppo, Ahmad explains the terror and hardship that soon crowded the divided city.
“During that time, Aleppo was really the most terrifying city,” Ahmad says. “Imagine two armies fighting each other in a city filled with people – it’s dangerous every single second.”
Ahmad sitting in front of a bombed school in his neighborhood in Aleppo.
I’m back in the United States after a trip that seemed to go by way too quickly in my eyes. Here’s some of what I learned and where my heads at now, after a truly life-changing experience.
Since being in Germany and immersing myself into this new culture, I’ve realized how fortunate I am that almost everyone I’ve encountered here speaks English. Although, the language barrier has prompted some problems when reading menus, understanding the tram and bus routes, figuring out how to run the dishwasher, and other basic tasks. Even so, I haven’t felt completely helpless by any means. Aside from a little frustration and a few wrong turns, it’s all been manageable. Continue reading “Not A Crisis, But A Grand Opportunity”
Prior to setting off on this German endeavor to document the refugee resettlement, I received an array of reactions. Most of which consisted of immediate surprise, skepticism, and curiosity. Most people were initially shocked that a young, blonde-haired, blue-eyed, bubbly 22-year-old female was interested in contributing to such a momentous and complex topic – and even more – that I was interested in working with actual refugees.
