Nour on refugee work
When Nour fled his homeland Syria in 2021, he left everything behind. Now, four years later, he speaks Dutch, has completed his participation statement and volunteers to help other newcomers find their place in Dutch society. His story shows how powerful participation can be, for yourself and for others.
Participation statement process
Nour followed the Participation Declaration Programme (PVT), a compulsory part of the Civic Integration Act. 'I got a good picture of how things are in the Netherlands and what Dutch people find important,' he says. The declaration revolves around four core values: participation, freedom, equality and solidarity. 'I enjoy helping others. I learn from that, and it helps me to participate in society.'
Learning through practice
In five meetings, newcomers learn how daily life in the Netherlands works. Think about appointments at the municipality, the GP or choosing a school. Bojoura Hoekstra of Welzijn Lelystad supervises these meetings: 'Nour is a success story. He now helps out, not as an interpreter but as an expert by experience. That is of great value for new participants.'
Cultural differences and rules
'What immediately struck me? In the Netherlands, everything goes through rules,' laughs Nour. 'You can't just walk into a GP's office. And Dutch people eat dinner exactly at 6pm.' Bojoura adds: 'So then you shouldn't drop in at 5.45pm! Because of Nour, I also look at our culture differently. Now when friends of my children spontaneously want to join me for dinner, I am much quicker to say yes.'
Language learning with YouTube and Duolingo
Nour completed his course in 2022. 'It didn't feel like school. The atmosphere was nice and you could ask anything.' By practising a lot with Dutch TV, YouTube and Duolingo, he reached language level B1. And he is not done yet: he is now working on B2.
Volunteering as a stepping stone
Through a coach from Werkbedrijf Lelystad, Nour started volunteering with the PVT. He has since passed his civic integration exam. His dream job? 'Working in the social domain, for example at a welfare organisation or the AZC. Helping other people.' Bojoura: 'I really wish him that.'
Future in the Netherlands
A dream job is not always immediately achievable. 'Sometimes language skills, work experience or a recognised diploma are still lacking,' explains Bojoura. Nour has a university education from Syria, but it is valued differently in the Netherlands. Nevertheless, he remains positive:
My future lies in this country. I love the Netherlands and its traditions.
- Nour, status holder