Cyprus Case Studies: Illuminating Inspiring Migrant Narratives Amidst Adversity

By Elia Psara from RESET

In the face of growing hostility and divisive narratives against migrants and refugees in Cyprus, the See me, Hear Me project seeks to illuminate the remarkable stories of individuals who have made it over challenges, contributing positively to their new communities.

SeHeMe directly addresses the intricate hardships encountered by young migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees during their transition into unfamiliar societies. Its core focus lies in facilitating integration by offering targeted language and media literacy training, specifically tailored to meet their evolving needs. At the heart of this initiative is the establishment of an online magazine solely managed by migrants and refugees themselves.

In striving to illuminate their experiences, SeHeMe aims to unearth the underlying narratives that drive migration – encompassing, political, social, and economic aspects. It seeks to bridge the gap in media coverage by offering a platform that delves deeper into the reasons behind migration, thus emphasizing the collective responsibilities towards immigrants as fellow human beings. Within the fabric of SeHeMe’s storytelling lies the transformative power of these narratives. Let’s focus into two of the examples of Cypriot case studies, by delving into the compelling journeys of Sachitha and Gini:

Sachitha, a 37-year-old from Sri Lanka, embarked on a pursuit of a better life in Cyprus. His journey from leaving university to train as a sailor, facing language barriers, yet aspiring to learn Greek to connect better, paints a picture of resilience and determination. His ultimate dream of becoming a captain symbolizes unwavering determination amid loneliness.

Gini, aged 26 arrived in Cyprus amid the pandemic, confronting pursuit of challenges and discrimination due to his nationality and language barriers. His pursuit of inclusivity and safety, reflects the desire to find acceptance and support his family abroad, highlighting the complexities of integration.

Through these stories, the SeHeMe project becomes a platform for migrant voices. It stands as a testament to resilience and determination. These narratives resonate deeply, fostering solidarity, empathy, and appreciation for diversity within migrant communities. SeHeMe invites everyone to celebrate these stories as a means of fostering understanding and compassion. By amplifying these narratives, the project aims to build bridges that foster a society where diversity is celebrated and all individuals, irrespective of their backgrounds, find opportunities to thrive and contribute meaningfully to a shared future.