– By Khalid Ahmadzai, Senior Director of Economic & Community Development
Yesterday evening, I sat down with Abdullah, a Syrian refugee who arrived in Northwest Arkansas almost a year ago. Over steaming cups of tea, he shared his incredible journey from Syria to the U.S., the challenges he faced, and the hopes that keep him moving forward. His story is one of resilience, determination, and love for his family.
From Syria to a New Beginning
Abdullah’s journey began in Syria, where life took a harrowing turn during the war. “My mom, dad, sister, and I moved to the U.S. almost a year ago this week,” he said, his voice tinged with both sorrow and pride. “But before that, we lived in Jordan after fleeing Syria in late 2012. My family spent time in a refugee camp before settling in Jordan proper in 2013. My brother… he didn’t make it. He was killed in Syria by the government.”
In Jordan, Abdullah (15 years old when arrived) found solace and purpose in his work, even during grueling days. “I worked two jobs, often in the heat of the summer. One of my jobs was at an ice cream shop, where I learned to make gelato. I experimented with flavors, including traditional ones from Syria. It brought a little piece of home to the people around me.”
After years of uncertainty in Jordan, Abdullah and his family arrived in the U.S. on December 12, 2023. It was a new chapter, full of promise yet riddled with challenges.
Starting Over in America
The transition to life in America wasn’t easy. Language barriers were among the first hurdles Abdullah faced. “I had studied English for nine months before coming here, but it was still tough to communicate,” he explained. “Oddly enough, when I started working at a poultry company, I found myself learning Spanish to communicate with my coworkers. It was funny—I came to America and learned Spanish!”
Abdullah is determined to further his education one day. “In Jordan, we worked hard just to pay the bills. There wasn’t time to study. Now, I want to earn my GED, but for now, I focus on my work. I have two jobs: full-time at Conagra and part-time at Gelatissimo in Downtown Rogers.”
Work, Dreams, and Community
At Gelatissimo, Abdullah’s passion for ice cream has found new life. “My ESL teacher told me about the shop, and I felt like I finally found a place where I could use my experience. The team encourages me and lets me bring a bit of my past experience to my work.”
Abdullah dreams of opening his own ice cream shop someday—a place where he can blend Syrian and Middle Eastern flavors with American tastes. “Maybe I can show my friends here in America what the Middle East tastes like,” he said, his eyes lighting up with hope.
Family and Resilience
For Abdullah, family is everything. “My sister and I take care of our parents,” he shared. “One of my proudest moments was getting my driver’s license. It’s something I never had the opportunity to do before. Now, I can drive my mom and dad to their appointments. It feels good to provide for them.”
Abdullah’s father, a skilled craftsman who worked for decades in the metal and textile industries, finds it hard to sit idle. “He always wants to work with his hands,” Abdullah said, smiling. “But I tell him to relax now. It’s my turn to take care of him.”
What Keeps Him Going
Abdullah credits his father as his greatest source of inspiration. “He taught me to work hard and never give up,” he said. “Every Friday, he gets creative, making things around the house. That’s what home feels like—his creativity, my mom’s cooking, and our three cats, who’ve been with us through thick and thin.”
Abdullah also shared an Arabic saying that has guided him through tough times: ساصبر حتى يعجز الصبر عن صبري “I will remain patient until patience itself grows weary of my perseverance.”
Looking Ahead
When asked about his hopes for the future, Abdullah smiled. “My mom wants me to get married,” he said with a chuckle. “But I also want to continue building a good life for my family and maybe one day start my own business.”
He has a message for others going through similar challenges: “Never lose hope. Take whatever work you can to start, and keep moving forward. And for Americans, I’d say—talk to your refugee neighbors, learn about their stories. Support comes in many forms.”
Abdullah’s story is one of courage, hard work, and an unyielding belief in a brighter future. As we finished our conversation and headed out in the cold hours of the evening, it was clear that his journey, though marked by immense challenges, is a testament to the power of resilience and community.
This blog post aims to celebrate Abdullah’s story while shedding light on the resilience and determination of refugees rebuilding their lives.
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