Blog → May 1, 2018

Resettled Life after Refugee Camps

Akhtar With His Boss Thomas Eichhorn And His Son Kamil

Written by Kristi Burton

One chilly morning last October, I enjoyed the day I spent photographing father and son, Akhtar and Kamil. Behind my lens, I captured their day from beginning to end. I was touched by their faith and courage in spite of all they have been through. 

An expert craftsman in marble and granite, Akhtar had a successful business in Damascus. His five stores and home were completely destroyed by bombs. He lost so much. After living in a couple refugee camps, Akhtar took his son, Kamil, and made the difficult journey to Germany, where they were able to find work, first as apprentices in a stone quarry (though they are already masters of the trade). They are pleased to be able to use their specialized skills in their new country. 

Although discouraged that their family is still in a camp in Lebanon, they hope to reunite with them soon. I was so impressed with how they are making the most out of their current circumstances.

This is a day in their life.

Kb 1
Kamil and Akhtar studying German in their attic bedroom before work about 4am
Kb 2 9
Akhtar's German language study
Kb 4
Akhtar making breakfast.
Kb 3
Akhtar offering me some apples for breakfast.
Kb 5
Kb 6
Behind the scenes. Akhtar speaking to his wife on the phone.
Kb 7
Waiting for the bus to go to work.
Kb 8
Bus ride.
Kb 9
The stone quarry where they work.
Kb 10
They began as interns at the stone quarry (which is ironic since they were both masters of the trade) and now have jobs there.
Kb 11
Kb 12
Kb 13
Akhtar laughing with stone quarry owner, Thomas Eichorn.
Kb 14
Akhtar, Thomas Eichhorn (owner of the stone quarry) and Kamil. Thomas is very pleased with their work and is impressed with their positive attitudes being so far from their family. He gives them rides from the bus stop to the factory every morning.
Kb 15 1
Akhtar and Kamil taking a moment to laugh on the job site.
Other Posts

Slam the Islamophobia

The Emerald Project is a Utah-based organization that carefully designs dialogues to engage with non-Muslims to make Salt Lake Valley a more welcoming home to Muslims. As many of our refugee friends belong to the Muslim faith, we applaud opportunities that foster understanding and were pleased to support The Emerald Project’s 3rd annual “Slam the Islamophobia” event on February 15th.

September 25, 2023

Invisible Barriers and Battles: The Mental Health Impact on Refugees

Refugees often risk their lives crossing deserts, jungles, and oceans all in the search for shelter, freedom, or happiness. Yet, even once they’ve reached physical safety, mental mountains emerge that make daily life an uphill climb. At the November 2022 conference for the Utah Chapter of the Society for Public Health Education (USOPHE), presenters Shurooq Al Jewari and Sasha Sloan discussed mental health and inclusion, focusing on immigrants and refugees.

September 15, 2023

Reclaiming Lost Traditions

Holidays are an important time to include newcomers. Newcomers are often aching for the traditions and holiday magic they knew at home - and the connections with family and friends. The Garcias* came from a strong family and community that knew generous and giving holiday traditions. I knew, when I met our new friends from Venezuela, the rich bond we would have; this was a kindred spirit family. Even though we have been bad at communicating (Google Translate is such a false hope), it was easy to find connections that helped us love each other.

September 8, 2023
Add Impact to Your Inbox
Sign up for our emails to get inspiring stories and updates delivered straight to you.
© 2023 Their Story is Our Story Privacy Policy
Their Story is Our Story is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization under the United States Internal Revenue Code. All donations are tax-deductible. Our tax identification number is 812983626.