2011 I was 11-years-old when the war started in my country, Syria. I was too young to understand what was happening. Before the war started, my life was perfect, I had everything I wanted, I had many friends, my family and I had spent time together, we were a happy family and no one had to leave our home country.

I had many dreams: I wanted to be a doctor, be with my friends forever, or grow older in the same place where I lived. But suddenly, I found myself without dreams, friends, or dolls. I woke up one morning and everywhere was full of hatred and I could not see my brothers anymore – they left the country to start a new life away from war.

2012 One day I was walking on the street and suddenly, a rocket exploded near me and I saw wounded people and blood everywhere. I was so scared. Some people cried, some of them spoke to God asking for help. It was a horrible day.

We had to leave our home and I had to leave my school to start a new life. I felt so sad because all my dreams were crushed, and I could no longer see my friends. I felt like I left my heart behind.

2013 My dad said to me: ‘You should go to school again.’ So, I went. But I was very shy and I felt uncomfortable so I could not make new friends. I spent my birthday very sick and alone. And the first thing that came to my mind is: ‘I am unlucky person, I have no friends and no dreams.’ I was totally hopeless.

2016 I did not like my situation so I started to be more social, to free myself from being an introvert. But I was still without dreams, and when I saw many of my friends having dreams l asked myself: ‘Why should I be depressed while life goes on out there?’ So, I searched within myself and I finally found what I want.

2018 I am steadily advancing towards my new dreams, without fearing the future or letting my past affect me. My family supports me and I am not depressed or shy anymore! My birthday was last month and I was filled with happiness with my new friends and dreams.

What I am want to say is that, the circumstances surrounding us are not a hindrance, regardless of whatever happened. Always find a way to be happy. Once I realized that it was time to change I felt powerful, because if I did not start today, then when?

If I did not change my life, then who would change it for me? Do not allow the past to negatively change you and affect your future. You have full control of your life.

Unfortunately, I have met many people who have no dreams in their lives. But we are born with a purpose and we must seek to find it and achieve it. If you want to make your future bright and want to make your dreams come true: Start Today.

We are the change we make in the World when we decide to start with ourselves.