
The average adult passes by about 40 people each day. The number can vary, of course, but it’s safe to say that many of us are completely unaware of those who walk by us on a daily basis. We are oblivious to the truth that each face has a story. Each face has encountered the unimaginable. Each face has been deeply saddened but has also, maybe, experienced incredible joy. At Convoy of Hope, we strive to not let these faces pass us by.
Because of certain political developments in Pakistan, it became a dangerous place for Amina* and her husband. As they searched for a way out, her husband was offered a job in Saudi Arabia. They relocated, and it was in Saudi Arabia that their two children were born. However, it is difficult to settle permanently there, so Amina and her children journeyed to Portugal while her husband stayed back to continue his job and provide for their family.
When Amina and her children arrived in Portugal, they had no support system or guidance in how to settle there legally. They were now part of the 1 million foreign residents there. While exploring the nearby communities, Amina heard about the Lisbon Project, a Convoy of Hope partner programme. She met two women who were already a part of the Women’s Empowerment programme there, and they invited her in.
“When I arrived, everyone welcomed me in. I have never felt at home like I do here. Everyone has become my brothers and sisters, and they were there to help me,” says Amina. She and her children have been able to take classes to learn the language. The volunteers at the Women’s Empowerment programme have helped Amina build her skills and her resume so that she can qualify for jobs in the area.
“The Women’s Empowerment programme also offers a place for recreation. If I am sad, I know I can come here and be with kind people. For someone who doesn’t have family or friends in Portugal, this is something great. We are given the opportunity to bring our children and they can also have a wonderful time. It has been a place where we learn from each other and inspire each other.” Amina says that she does not only want to receive — she wants to help other immigrants as well.
The two women Amina met didn’t just pass her by. Because their lives had also been changed through Convoy of Hope’s Women’s Empowerment programmes, they took the time to hear her story and offer her hope. And Amina took that hope. Because of these programmes, Amina’s life looks much different. She and her children have a bright future while they look forward to reuniting with her husband.
*Name has been changed.