Many elderly refugees want to stay near their country

My name is Zhian Eli and I am studying at Otago Polytechnic for my Bachelor of Leadership for Change and as part of my study requirement, I am undertaking a project: to travel to refugee camps in middle east and introduce support programmes to help refugees start new lives within their own land, environment and culture.

Many refugees have found new homes in New Zealand for which they are grateful, having been welcomed and supported here by generous people and organisations. I was one of them, coming to New Zealand in 1997.

However the process takes time and is especially hard for elderly refugees, many of whom cannot undertake long journeys to other countries offering sanctuary and a new life. It is also difficult for elderly refugees to adjust to a new country: adapting to the language, customs and culture does not come as easily for them as it does for younger refugee families.

My parents could not make the adjustment, as much as they were grateful for the opportunity. At the end had to take them back but in route to home Stuck in Canada and passaway before getting home!

Currently, there are no other options for refugees other than the lengthy and, at times unsuccessful, process of resettlement in another country. I want to lead change in Middle east refugee camps, developing strategies and programmes for re-settling refugees within their native lands where life is familiar and family support is near.

Over three million Syrian refugees live in over ten Kurdistan refugee camps. I plan to visit at least five as part of my project, to meet with those leaders, movers and those wanting change, and rally their support so together, we can make positive change in the lives of our elderly and their families.

I have started a national charity in NZ and website mrsi4all.org but this project need to start from refugee camps. if we start from there , they will not wait 10 yrs to come to NZ!!