UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, protects and assists people fleeing conflict or persecution. Established in 1951, it now has a staff of more than 8,000 working in 126 countries. It has twice been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. The TRACKS website was created to share some extraordinary stories of survival, hope and home. Alaa's story has been featured here.
In 2011 Alaa, now 29, fled the war in Syria to Lebanon carrying only his violin and a few belongings. Little did he know his musical talent would become his lifeline. He was offered a summer music scholarship by Fabrica Communication Research Group in Italy. Over the last few months he has performed live concerts and even recorded his own album.
Despite missing his family, who are split between Syria and Lebanon, Alaa decided to stay in Europe and seek asylum. Alaa’s family had an art gallery and music space in Syria, but they have been destroyed in the conflict. His dream is to rebuild this space in Europe, to reunite with his family and to relive their happy memories.
Fabrica Musica and Alaa Arsheed from Fabrica on Vimeo.
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