SeHeMe: Empowering Young Migrants to Share Their Stories (Part 2)

By Sabnam Bhandari and Elia Psara from RESET

The Transition of a Migrant into a New Society
The integration of young migrants into their host societies remains a significant challenge. These individuals often encounter a variety of barriers, including language difficulties and social and cultural isolation.

The SeHeMe (SeeMeHear) project emerged from a desire to tackle these challenges and give young newcomers a powerful platform to share their voices and stories. By creating online spaces for expression and dialogue, SeHeMe aims to bridge the gap between migrants and their new communities. Through this project, we have had the privilege of meeting many new people from different countries and providing them with opportunities to discuss and share their experiences.

One of the most inspiring stories is that of Sabnam Bhandari, a young newcomer from Nepal. Amidst the difficulties of adapting to a new environment, she managed to overcome obstacles and chase her dreams.

Sabnam's Journey
Sabnam’s story is a testament to the resilience and determination of many young migrants. ‘I was introduced to the SeHeMe project by my Cypriot friend, who first introduced me to one of the coordinators. I believe it is a great opportunity to share my experience in Cyprus with others,’ says Sabnam. Her journey illustrates the power of community support and the importance of having platforms like SeHeMe to amplify migrant voices.

Empowerment Through Media Literacy
A core component of the SeHeMe project is media literacy, which plays a crucial role in empowering young migrants. Sabnam elaborates: ‘The SeHeMe project also focuses on media literacy, equipping young migrants with the skills to share their stories and advocate for change through digital platforms. Learning media literacy through SeHeMe has been incredibly inspiring. Having a platform to share my story allows me to feel like I can help others who are considering moving to Cyprus.’
This aspect of the project not only helps migrants articulate their experiences but also fosters a sense of agency and belonging in their new environments.

A Message of Encouragement
To anyone facing similar challenges or being a newcomer in a different country, Sabnam offers heartfelt advice:
“Embrace the journey with an open heart and mind. While it may feel daunting at first, the experiences you gain, the people you meet, and the skills you acquire will shape you in ways you never imagined. Remember to stay resilient and take advantage of opportunities like the SeHeMe project. Your story is unique and valuable, and sharing it can inspire and help others. Believe in yourself, and know that every step you take brings you closer to finding your place in a new world.”

Through the SeHeMe project, stories like Sabnam’s continue to inspire and empower, highlighting the strength and potential of young migrants worldwide.