We have decided to shine a light on some of the amazing people who work in our VICTVS Global Network. With over 5,000 members worldwide, our network is filled with inspiring individuals making a difference every day. Through these interviews, we hope to highlight their incredible stories and achievements.
In this interview, we shine a spotlight on Soulafa Al Joukhadar and her extraordinary journey.
Soulafa, you’re based in the Netherlands after fleeing the Syrian civil war with your family. Can you tell me more about this: when did you decide to make the move, and what was it like moving to a completely new country and culture?
Syria, my homeland, is irreplaceable in my heart. But when we could no longer find enough food for our children or afford basic necessities, and when sending them to school became life-threatening due to shelling and missiles, we had no choice but to make the hardest decision: to flee in search of safety. At the end of 2014, my husband decided to migrate alone, fearing for our lives and those of our children, Sarah and Hasan. He travelled from Syria to Lebanon, then to Turkey, where he spent months attempting to cross the sea. After several failed attempts, he finally reached Greece, but was stranded in a dangerous area before being rescued. He was detained in Athens for nearly a month before finally making it to the Netherlands.
One day changed everything. On September 8th 2015, my 14-year-old relative was killed by stray shrapnel. I could no longer stay. As soon as our visas were ready, I asked my husband to book our tickets. I left on October 8th.
When we arrived, we were overwhelmed. We had forgotten what basic necessities like electricity, water, and food felt like. But more than anything, we deeply missed our family – especially my mother and father. It was also wonderful that the Dutch people spoke English fluently, which made many things much easier for us.
How has your life changed since moving to the Netherlands?
Life here is monotonous and dull: no work, no family. The weather is different, especially the Dutch winters. We were frightened by the sounds of thunder and fireworks, as they reminded us of war. But after a while, and with language school, things became a bit easier. Everything was a challenge for us. I had to learn how to ride a bike to get to school, and so did my children. Even shopping was a challenge. We had to read and translate everything to make sure it was “halal.”
But what I didn’t expect happened. In December 2016, my mother passed away. That moment shattered me. I couldn’t comprehend it, especially since she wasn’t sick. It happened suddenly. I was so worried about my father, knowing how much my mother meant to him and with no one else there, as my only sister had migrated to Germany before me. I had to return alone to Syria for a month to care for my father and gather the necessary documents to bring him to the Netherlands. Despite many attempts, the government rejected our application. Two years later, my father passed away as well.
I spent nearly five years lost, trying to rebuild myself. I completed language courses and tried to find work but unfortunately, I could only do volunteer work which, in return, helped me practise Dutch.
What made you want to get involved with VICTVS?
Finally, after the tough COVID period, I found a job that required English, which I hold a university degree in, through digital job websites. I joined the great team at VICTVS.
When you’re not invigilating exams and supporting VICTVS, what are you doing?
I have a bachelor’s degree in Translation and Interpretation. However, in the Netherlands it was very difficult to find a job in English as most opportunities were volunteer-based. Fortunately, I found a job in a drugstore where I learned a lot. I had to push myself to speak Dutch, which greatly improved my Dutch skills. I worked there for two years, and then I found another job that is very satisfying for me. I now work for a medical company as an administrative employee, assisting both the owner and the general manager.
You’re always overflowing with positivity and professionalism. How do you stay so positive? Please give us your tips!
I am naturally a positive person and I believe – especially after the experience of war – that one must remain hopeful and appreciate the blessings they have. After the war and the loss of my parents, I began to find the happiness I had completely forgotten. This has only increased my positivity. As for professionalism, I thank you all. I believe this comes from my previous work experience in Syria.
What are some current goals that you are working towards?
