The Story of Afra (24)

Seven months ago, I arrived in the Netherlands. I carried with me both dreams and unfinished chapters. Back in Turkey, I was studying Nutrigenetics—just one year away from completing my degree. I had a plan, a path, a future I could see clearly. Then, everything changed. I didn’t come here because I wanted to. I came because I had to.

The Story of Afra (24)

My family faced political challenges, and staying in Turkey became too dangerous. For three years, I couldn’t see my mother. My brother was imprisoned. The world I knew was no longer safe. Now, I find myself in a place of waiting. I can’t work yet. I can’t continue my studies yet.

But waiting doesn’t mean stopping. I fill my time with things that keep my hands moving, my mind active, and my heart hopeful.

The world I knew was no longer safe. Now, I find myself in a place of waiting. I can’t work yet. I can’t continue my studies yet. But waiting doesn’t mean stopping.

I craft bracelets, carefully choosing colours and stones, creating something tangible when so much of life feels uncertain. I burn intricate designs into wood, watching simple pieces transform with each stroke. And more than anything, I cook. Cooking is where I feel most at home, no matter where I am. I love experimenting with flavours—Turkish dishes, Asian spices, and recipes from around the world. One day, I dream of becoming a dietitian, or maybe even a chef. Food has always been more than just nourishment for me—it’s creation, connection, and comfort.

One day, I dream of becoming a dietitian, or maybe even a chef.

Life in the Netherlands is different from what I knew before. In Turkey, stress and frustration were constant. Here, people respect each other’s space, their choices, their differences. People don’t judge as quickly. Even though I don’t speak Dutch yet, they switch to English without hesitation, making me feel welcome. That kindness means everything when you’re starting over.

Still, there is so much I want to do. I dream of the day I can continue my studies, build my own career, and shape my own future. I believe that time will come. I believe life will be better. And until then, I keep creating, keep learning, and keep looking forward. This journey isn’t easy, but it’s mine. And I know I’m only at the beginning of something new.

I believe life will be better. And until then, I keep creating, keep learning, and keep looking forward.