BBCRené expresses his newfound happiness in being able to be photographed because he feels that the era of fear has passed. The music box he holds is a cherished possession that belonged to his grandmother, a symbol of comfort and nostalgia. As he listens to the familiar tune from his Damascus sitting room, he reflects on the memories it evokes of his home in Syria.
René’s gentle demeanor is evident as he recounts the emotional turmoil he experienced during his time in Syrian prisons. The harrowing stories of abuse and suffering he endured, along with witnessing the atrocities inflicted on others, have left lasting scars on his psyche.
Despite the trauma he has endured, René’s resilience shines through as he bravely shares his story in front of the camera. The recent changes in Syria, with the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, have given him a sense of liberation and empowerment. He envisions a future where all Syrians, regardless of their background or orientation, can live in freedom and equality.
As a gay man, René acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead, especially in a country where homosexuality was criminalized under the previous regime. He remains cautious yet hopeful about the prospects of change and calls for the protection of all religious and ethnic groups in the new Syria.
Similarly, Nujeen, a disabled Kurdish refugee who fled Syria with her family, shares her aspirations for a more inclusive and tolerant society. She dreams of a future where diversity is celebrated and people with disabilities are given equal opportunities. Despite the uncertainties and fears that loom over the country’s future, Nujeen’s unwavering hope and resilience serve as a beacon of light amidst the darkness of war and displacement.
Both René and Nujeen embody the spirit of perseverance and optimism in the face of adversity. Their stories reflect the complexities and challenges of rebuilding a nation torn apart by conflict, yet they remain steadfast in their belief in a brighter future for Syria and its people.