I am Hijratullah Rahmani, 42 years old, from Afghanistan.

Back home, I left behind my family, my past, and everything I had ever loved.
I departed with nothing, as I was left with no other choice.

The path to Bulgaria was fraught with fear and many unknowns. I found the
faith in myself to carry on, believing that if I had built a life once, I could
build it anew. And I did. Today, I am here in Sofia with my children. My life
is now peaceful. I have discovered great kindness, and my friends here have
helped me settle in. I believe that when you rely on yourself, any hardship
can be overcome.

Still, I face one great challenge: the Bulgarian language. However, I am al-
ready learning and putting in the effort. I hope that one day I will know the country more deeply — not just as the place where I am living, but as my

home. To get to know it, to see its beautiful nature and landmarks. My journey has not yet ended. It goes on, with gratitude and strength.