“I’ve been helped, so now I help others”

Every week, Mohammed dedicates his time to helping newcomers in Leeuwarden. He assists with practical matters, translates for people who do not yet speak the language, and offers a listening ear. Volunteering comes naturally to him. Not because he has to, but because he wants to give something back for the help he himself has received.

“Lots of people helped me when I first arrived in the Netherlands,” he says. “Now I want to do the same for others.” Mohammed’s story shows that everyone can make a difference to someone else’s life.

Mohammed has been living in the Netherlands for several years now. Before he found a home here, he lived in various countries. Along the way, he faced many difficult situations. When he settled in the Netherlands, he received help from various organisations, including VluchtelingenWerk, the mental health services and Amaryllis.

“I didn’t have anything myself when I first arrived here,” he says. “I even had to borrow clothes for job interviews. Lots of people helped me. I’m still grateful for that every day.” Through Amaryllis, he came into contact with people who helped him further. He also received support with his integration. That meant a great deal to him.

That is why he volunteers to help newcomers in Leeuwarden. For example, he helps with practical matters, such as handing over the keys to a new home. He also acts as a translator. Mohammed speaks no fewer than six languages. “I don’t think it’s fair to sit at home when I can also do something to help others. It also helps me a great deal with my integration.”

Working with experts by experience is extremely valuable. Sharona, volunteering adviser: “Experts by experience know from their own experience what it means to find your way in the Netherlands as a refugee with recognised status. They understand the practical challenges, as well as the feelings, uncertainties and cultural differences that come with it. This enables them to empathise effectively, build trust and ensure that the support provided by Amaryllis is better tailored to individual needs. Every week, Mohammed dedicates himself to helping others with obvious enthusiasm, placing respect at the heart of what he does whilst also continuing to develop himself. We are grateful that, thanks to his commitment and experience, we have such an inspiring volunteer on our team.”

He now feels completely at home in the Netherlands. Even when, after many years, he was finally able to go on holiday abroad again, he realised just how important the Netherlands had become to him. “When the plane landed back in the Netherlands, I felt a sense of relief. This is where I feel at home. For the first time in my life, I don’t feel like a stranger.”

According to Mohammed, volunteering doesn’t have to be complicated. Everyone can make a difference to someone else in their own way. “If you’ve received help yourself, it’s important to help others too. You can’t expect people to always be there for you if you never give anything back yourself.”

That is why he has a clear message for the people of Leeuwarden: “We often have more than we realise. A home, food, family, friends or help when we need it. Be grateful for that and do something for someone else. Together, we can make a difference.”