Powerful Asylum Speakers Talk

Students in Years 9, 10 and 12 were recently moved and inspired by a visit from Ayman Alhussein of the charity Asylum Speakers. Ayman began by sharing memories of his happy childhood in Syria, describing life in Damascus with his parents and sister, the country’s warm climate, and its rich food culture—home to favourites like falafel, shawarma, hummus and halloumi.

Syria is a country in the Middle East which is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the west, and Turkey (north), Iraq (east), Jordan (south) and Israel/Lebanon (south west). 

He then spoke about the turning point in his life during the Arab Spring in 2011, when peaceful protests spread across the Middle East. Students began to stand up against government corruption and the long-held message to distrust Western countries, hoping instead for a more open way of life. Ayman explained that, in the past, those who spoke out often disappeared. After taking part in demonstrations, he was arrested several times as the government cracked down on dissent. When the situation escalated into violence, his father urged him to flee to Turkey for safety.

Forced to rebuild his life, Ayman quickly learnt Turkish and studied dental prosthetics, though he was unable to work after graduating. With the war ongoing, he began a difficult journey across Europe in search of stability, eventually reaching a refugee camp in Calais. Determined to reunite with family in the UK, he made several attempts before finally arriving in Britain in a suitcase after stowing away on a London-bound coach from Paris.

Now granted asylum, Ayman has built a new life as a filmmaker. He spoke powerfully about the freedoms many take for granted - being able to work, travel, and live safely.

Students were deeply engaged by his story, and we thank him for sharing his experiences and wish him every success in the future.