Hasan Rrahmani - My Childhood Stopped in 1997

As a child, the echo of air raid sirens and the uncertainty of tomorrow were constants for Hasan Rrahmani. Now a digital content creator for Amnesty International, this episode bravely recounts the chilling experiences of his youth during the Kosovo war and his subsequent journey as a refugee to the UK. Throughout the conversation, we explore the deep scars left by conflict on the youngest, their families fractured in the face of war's relentless advance.

Life in a refugee camp and the struggle for identity in a new country are realities Hasan knows all too well. His vivid memories paint a picture of the warmth and generosity he encountered, from the sanctuary of a Macedonian mosque to the kindness of strangers in Britain. But the road to integration is fraught with challenges - learning a new language, navigating cultural nuances, and battling the lingering effects of trauma. His story, while unique, echoes the experiences of many who seek refuge and the complex emotions that accompany rebuilding one's life from the ground up.

This episode doesn't just recount the past; it also sheds light on the importance of empathy and understanding in the present. Hasan’s journey from surviving war to advocating for human rights is a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility we share in humanising the refugee experience. Through Hasan, we're reminded to look beyond fear and stereotype, to see the individual stories and the enduring strength that lie within the hearts of those who have endured the unimaginable. 

Episode signposting -

https://www.refugeecouncil.org.uk

https://www.redcross.org.uk/get-help/get-help-as-a-refugee

https://care4calais.org