Each refugee has a story to tell, and sometimes, it is up to others to give them the opportunity to speak up. More than voicing their problems, people should also go beyond airing their concerns and start helping each refugee directly. It can be a fundraiser or by simply providing a place to stay in.
This is the story of how a Syrian refugee who was barely surviving in Beirut, Lebanon had his life changed after a man took a photo of him working hard in the streets.
Syrian refugee Abdul trying his best
This father from Syria, Abdul Halim al-Attar, was holding his daughter, Reem, as he tried to persuade people into buying his pens, in Beirut. Even though it was quite hot, he didn't want to give up and earn just nothing because that would mean that his child would not be able to eat properly.
Someone took a photo
Thankfully, Abdul's determination to survive inspired someone to take a photo of him and post it on the internet. The image went viral as people saw the heartbreaking image of a man selling pens to barely survive.
Hard conditions
Not just the earnings - Abdul had quite harsh living conditions overall. Every day was a challenge for the father and his daughter. But he chose not to give up - either in himself or on the God above
Helped by a Norwegian
Thanks to the Gissur Simonarson, a Norwegian web developer, a crowdfunding event for Abdul and his family was arranged that allowed people to raise more than $200,000 for Abdul.
Making business in Lebanon
Abdul did not spend all of the money wastefully. Instead, he established three businesses. To help even just some of the 1.2 million refugees living in Lebanon, Abdul decided to hire 16 Syrian refugees. Aside from this, Abdul also gave financial assistance both to his family and friends.
Kindness is still around
Thus, Abdul's life changed along with the lives of other people because of a kind gesture made by Gissur Simonarson.
Abdul Halim Attar is happy to be living in better conditions
With the entrepreneurship, Abdul was able to rent an apartment that has two bedrooms. He currently lives with his adorable daughter Reem and his son Abdullelah.
It was a tough, yet beautiful journey
For someone who roamed around the blazing streets for the minimal survival of the family, Abdul has made a significant recovery and now has acquired the place in the society, where he is loved and respected by many people. Abdul and his daughter must look behind at those days and feel glad over what they came to survive.
His own restaurant
What started off as a simple campaign of #BuyPens, has now become a reality with his restaurant in Lebanon. Certainly, victory belongs to those who keep hustling.
From trash and pen-vendor to businessman
Life might seem to be at its worst, but in the end, there will be people out there who will give you a lending hand. Do not give up, hope for the best, and share the love.
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