Mvslim
It’s rare to figure out your life’s passion and what you want to do with your life at such a young age. At seventeen, Syrian refugee Halema Al-Hasan knows exactly what she wants to do with her life: to become a famous fashion designer!
Halema has found memories of her life in the countryside of Idlib, Syria where she grew up. Three years ago, as the situation in Syria became dire, Halema and her family of ten resettled into a refugee camp in Lebanon. Unfortunately, she was unable to continue her schooling because her family could no longer afford it.
The Syrian teen started working as a seamstress two years ago to help her family out financially. Her first customer was her cousin, who brought her some material and asked her to make her a dress. It’s hard to miss the joy on Halema’s face as she speaks of her designs and creations. Her sewing machine and sketches are stored in the tent she shares with her family. However, she longs for a more modern sewing machine to help her in her endeavour.
Halema’s mother worries that she works too hard, but beams with pride as she recalls the first time she handed over her modest earnings to help the family.
Halema has a bright outlook on life. She hopes to finish her education and bring her dreams of becoming a fashion designer to light.
Watch Halema’s story here.
This article was written by Yusra Salama.
