I arrived in Seattle from Somalia in April 2023, and in just over a year, I have experienced incredible support and significant challenges. Every morning, I carefully check the news, afraid of any updates that could jeopardize my status here.
I plan to graduate with an associate degree in cybersecurity in June 2025 from Renton Technical College. But the thought of being sent back to Somalia was terrifying. I have found hope in the generosity and welcome of the American people.
In the heart of Somalia lies the small town of Luuq. Here, in 1994, I took my first breath. Growing up in this tight-knit community, where everyone knew each other, shaped my identity.
When I was 14, my family moved to the capital, Mogadishu. With its bustling streets and the call to prayer, or call to prayer, blaring from its minarets, the city is a stark contrast to Luuq. The transition was exciting and challenging, marked by the excitement of city life and nostalgia for the simplicity of my hometown.
In the capital, my educational journey is flying. High school became a stage for self-discovery and academic pursuit, and amidst the challenges faced by a country rebuilding from conflict, I found solace and inspiration within the walls of Mogadishu’s school.
However, the city is not without its challenges. It’s scary, navigating in places where safety is not guaranteed, and the threat of terrorism creates a long shadow.
While the outside world often sees Somalia through the lens of conflict, the people inside are resilient, yearning for stability and peace. My thoughts on this issue are a mixture of frustration at external perceptions that count the country’s beauty and potential, and determination to contribute to positive change. My decision to leave Mogadishu was shaped by my desire to live a life free from the constant threat of violence. My work as a journalist has brought me threats and death threats.
In 2023, I leave.
My journey took me through Somalia, Kenya, and Turkey to America. I passed through Ecuador, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras and Mexico before reaching the United States.
One of the most daunting challenges is in the Darién Gap, a dense and unforgiving rainforest that straddles the border between Colombia and Panama. This color of the desert must be crossed on foot. For three exciting days, we hiked through the forest, faced the elements and experienced physical and mental exhaustion.
Crossing the Darién Gap is not just a physical feat; it is a metaphor for the hardships faced by asylum seekers. It symbolizes the difficult and dangerous nature of seeking refuge, where the path to safety is full of challenges and uncertainties. The decision to leave behind the landscape in front is driven by the hope of a better life, but the journey is a test of courage.
In Seattle, with its green trees and the rhythm of rain on the city streets, I encountered the intersection of past and present, bringing stories of resilience, hope and the pursuit of a place to call home.
When I arrived, I sought to rebuild and contribute to the new community. Renton Technical College played an important role in this phase of the journey. The college welcomed me with open arms, providing not only educational resources but also a supportive community that understands the challenges newcomers face. Faculty and staff recognize the unique experiences that asylum seekers bring and create an inclusive and nurturing environment.
As I gaze into the future against the backdrop of the Space Needle, memories of Luuq, Mogadishu and the promise of new beginnings in Seattle merge into a narrative that transcends borders and cultures. My journey embodies the spirit of exploration, resilience and the universal pursuit of home, wherever it may be.