Unlocking refugee and migrant children’s potential
Refugee and migrant children bring enormous potential. A recent video game project offered inspiration for how we can unlock it.
Violence, exploitation, discrimination – all everyday threats to the safety of refugee and migrant children and children affected by the horrors of conflict. The dangers to these children have only intensified as countries across the globe have battled the COVID-19 pandemic.
As we plan for the future and reimagine a fairer world for every child, it’s important that we also rethink what children on the move have to offer communities through their passion, resilience and determination. But to do this, we first need to better understand their journeys – where they have come from, who they are, and what they hope for the future.
The Unlock Their Potential mini video game, which ran from September through December 2020, was based on the real-life stories of three children and aimed to shine a light on these extraordinary young people, to challenge the common misconceptions about them, and to increase understanding about some of the challenges they face. Better understanding means a better world.
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The children behind the game
It goes without saying that in the real world, these children’s journeys are anything but a game. The challenges Pouya, Sama and Nora have faced – physical and emotional – have required them to draw upon deep reservoirs of strength and determination. But none of this has dulled their passion or optimism. Read about their lives, what motivates them, and their dreams for the future.
Nora’s story
Nora and her family fled poverty and conflict in Somalia to build a safer, more prosperous life.
Pouya’s story
Pouya’s family endured a harrowing journey from Afghanistan. With support, he’s changing his life for the better.
Sama’s story
Sama is proud of her family roots in Egypt. Her heritage is inspiring her as a storyteller in her current home.
How you can make a difference
UNICEF works every day to help make communities more inclusive for refugee and migrant children and ensure they are given a fair chance: from campaigning for the rights of displaced children, to educating and empowering them with new skills and opportunities, to helping them settle into their new lives.
When we work together, we can do things better. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure that migrant and refugee children integrate with their local peers. When they do, it’s not just the children themselves who benefit – society is better off, too. Read more about UNICEF’s vision for a Better World for children on the move and their new communities.
