My name is Fatima Balkish, and I am 16 years old. I was born in Aleppo, Syria, and now I live in Reyhanli, Türkiye. When I first left Syria, I was only four years old. We moved to Kilis camp, and I vividly remember those early days. We were so scared because it was so dangerous, so we decided to leave. We gathered our belongings and left Syria, knowing that staying could mean possible death. As we entered Türkiye, I remember seeing a place full of olive trees. We slept in the car on our first night and were given food because we were exhausted.

We stayed in the camp for three years. One of my fondest memories from those times was living in a close-knit community. Our caravan was very small, and my mother used to let me climb out of the window to play with the other kids. We spent long hours playing outside, only returning home when it got dark. Despite the hardships, there was a sense of community and support among the families in the camp.

However, the worst moment of my life was when my father died. He was a battalion commander in the war and died in Syria in 2016. I was only nine years old then. After his death, the world seemed very different and difficult. We faced more challenges when we were smuggled into the camp in the snow, making mistakes along the way. It was a time of immense sorrow and struggle for my family.

I have a younger sister and three younger brothers; my mother has always been our pillar of strength. She taught us about Karam House after seeing something online or hearing it from someone. After the earthquake, we came to Karam House, which became a place of joy and activity for us. I really enjoy being part of this community because it feels like a place full of energy and positivity. We engage in various activities, and it’s a space where I can express myself freely. All moments here are sweet, and I particularly love our discussions on various topics and our respect for each other’s opinions.

In the future, I want to study interior architecture and become an interior designer. I’ve always been passionate about drawing and decoration. While I love Türkiye, I also want to explore other countries, especially Arab ones like Saudi Arabia. One of my proudest achievements is the program I created for drawing for beginners. If there’s one thing I could take from Karam House, it would be the freedom to express my opinions and the leadership skills I’ve gained here.

Reflecting on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for Karam House. I would like to thank everyone there for making me feel at home and for all the support they’ve provided. This place has truly been a blessing in my life. The sense of community, the opportunities to learn and grow, and the unwavering support have all played a crucial role in shaping who I am today. I am determined to pursue my dreams and give back to the community that has given me so much.