A Journey of Resilience and Hope: My Refugee Story

My name is Malath, a name that means “refuge,” “haven,” and “safe place” in Arabic. This week marked 11 years since my arrival in the United States as a refugee from Iraq—a journey that has profoundly transformed my life and the lives of my children.

I never imagined leaving behind my home, my career, and the business I worked so hard to build. Yet, life in Iraq had become untenable. As the system changed, I transitioned from my engineering background to working in media and the humanitarian field. Collaborating with US and UN organizations, I contributed to efforts to build democracy, local governance, and community initiatives. Unfortunately, the worsening security situation brought devastating losses, including colleagues and friends, and personal threats from militias. It was then that I made the painful decision to flee my country.

The Call That Changed Everything

I will never forget the day the International Organization for Migration (IOM) called to inform me that I had just 10 days to prepare to leave. Relief and gratitude for the chance to ensure my children’s safety were mixed with sadness, anger, and confusion. How do you pack a lifetime into a few suitcases? I carefully chose what to bring, from essential heavy clothing for Chicago’s winter to cherished photo albums that held memories of home.

The day we arrived in Chicago, I saw snow for the first time. Looking out from my fourth-floor apartment, everything was blanketed in white—a breathtaking yet intimidating sight that mirrored my feelings about the unknown future ahead.


Building a New Life

The past 11 years have been a journey of firsts. I remember the kind face of the case manager who welcomed us at the airport. I experienced the excitement and uncertainty of my first job, the vulnerability of sharing my story for the first time, and the pride of creating my first art piece.

One of the most poignant firsts was the day I started working with a refugee resettlement agency. I will never forget the emotions I felt welcoming another family at the airport. Their faces, filled with both hope and fear, reminded me so much of my own on that first day in the United States.

Another unforgettable milestone was receiving my naturalization certificate. That moment was a symbol of accomplishment and the start of a new chapter for my family. Equally moving was the day my children received their U.S. passports. We celebrated with a special outing, creating joyful new memories while honoring the opportunities that now define our lives.


Reunited After a Decade

Last May marked an emotional milestone when I reunited with my family in Iraq after 10 long years. Seeing my mother and extended family, witnessing the changes in my home country, and introducing my children to relatives they had only known through video calls was overwhelming. It was a moment of closure and connection, underscoring the resilience of family bonds despite distance and time.


Finding Purpose Through Advocacy

Throughout my journey, I have developed a deep connection to advocacy and supporting refugee families. Through my work with Canopy NWA, my art, and social media, I strive to share the resources and knowledge I desperately needed as a new arrival. Just recently, a family who had watched my YouTube videos about life in Arkansas recognized me and shared how helpful those videos were. Hearing their gratitude was a powerful reminder of why I continue this work.


Lessons Learned

If this journey has taught me anything, it is the importance of resilience and the transformative power of community. Even in the face of unimaginable challenges, there is always hope. The kindness and support I received from others shaped my experience, and I am committed to paying it forward.

Working with Canopy NWA is a privilege. This compassionate and dedicated team inspires me daily, and I am honored to contribute to their mission of creating a community where refugees are welcomed and equipped to rebuild their lives.


The artwork featured here, created by Tram Colwin for the What We Carry exhibition, holds a special place in my heart. It depicts the IOM bag I carried during my journey, a powerful symbol of the refugee experience and the identification that helped us be recognized and supported along the way.

As I reflect on the past 11 years, I feel immense gratitude for the journey, the lessons, and the opportunity to support others as they begin their new lives.

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