Layla's path out of darkness

Amidst the twinkling lights and quiet Christmas carols, we heard a Christmas story that shone brighter than any candle: the story of Layla – a displaced woman who never stopped hoping.

Multicultural and multireligous End-of-year Celebrations at the Amina Centre in Athens.

Layla* grew up in a small village in southern Lebanon, in a large, lively family. But war, occupation and the loss of loved ones cast a shadow over her childhood, forcing her to take on responsibility and become strong at an early age.

Years later, now married and the mother of two children, her family had no choice but to flee: they left their home and their memories behind and set off on the dangerous journey to Europe. Arriving in Greece, they face a new reality – without language, without security, without certainty about what will happen next.

In Athens, Layla discovers the Amina Centre, a place where she finds not only practical help, but also open doors and open hearts. Here, she is accompanied through administrative procedures, school enrolment, doctor's appointments and during her pregnancy with her third child – step by step, so that unfamiliarity can slowly become everyday life.

Despite setbacks – a rejected asylum application, lost work – Layla does not give up. With legal support, her family finally obtains residence status, and Layla is allowed to work again and give her children a future.

Today, Layla says: "Life does not determine your identity – who you are – but you yourself, through what you do." At a time when so much is uncertain, her words are like a quiet but clear Christmas star for us.

*Name changed to protect privacy.