After 13 years in Turkiye, Mohamed Al-Maliki, his wife, and their three children—Salam, Abdulaziz, and Sham—have returned home to Syria. The family initially fled Syria in 2012, seeking refuge from the war. For their children, who were either very young or born in Turkiye, Syria is a place they’ve only heard stories about. Now, they’re excited to see their homeland for the first time and attend schools where they will learn in their native language. As Mohamed shared, his kids are eager to return to “our school, our house, our family.”

The family’s journey has been made easier thanks to the support of the Karam Families program. Mohamed credits the program with helping his children overcome their shyness and giving them confidence through Karam Studios. He also spoke of the invaluable support the family received after the devastating earthquake, which forced them to leave their home. “I felt that there was a group of people who cared about me,” he said.

When they arrived at the Syrian border, the family was met with a warm and emotional welcome. As Mohamed shared, a soldier on the Syrian side of the border greeted them with “Welcome to your country!” and even helped carry their bags. The feeling of “relief and inner peace is indescribable,” he said, and he hopes to share that joy with others who want to return home.

The Al-Maliki family is returning to their village of Nirab, near Aleppo, with a clear plan. Their house was destroyed, but they are ready to rebuild it, open a shop, and give their children the opportunity to grow up in their own country. They are optimistic, despite knowing they will face challenges. Mohamed, his wife, and their children all believe that with hard work and determination, their future in Syria will be better than the lives they’ve known in Turkiye.

Mohamed’s story is a testament to the resilience of families who have faced unimaginable hardship. It’s a reminder that even after years away, the hope of returning home remains a powerful force.