Clarisse’s Journey: Embracing Life’s Lessons and Passing Them On

Algiers, Algeria – In 2013, amidst political unrest and various personal circumstances, Clarisse had to close her hair salon in Côte d'Ivoire and embarked on a long migratory journey in search of a better future for herself and her six-year-old son. Her journey led her through several West African countries, where she faced trials and dangers, but also encountered the kindness and generosity of strangers.

Clarisse recalls the hardships she experienced: "I lost my father, my mother fell ill, and I faced so many other challenges that I thought I would never overcome. But I never lost hope." Her strength of character and determination pushed her to keep going, guided by her unconditional love for her son and the desire to offer him a better life.

Along the way, Clarisse found support and compassion from benevolent people, such as the young Malian who helped her in Mali and the Algerian family who took her in for two and a half years. These encounters profoundly impacted her life, allowing her to grow, become wiser, and learn valuable life lessons. "I learned the importance of staying calm, respecting others, communicating positively, and being resilient in the face of adversity," she reflects.

Despite the challenges she faced, Clarisse remained determined to give her son all the love and education he needed. "I teach him values like courage, perseverance, kindness, and hope," she says. While awaiting their return to their homeland and his school enrolment, she imparts these lessons to him.

After years away from home, Clarisse decided to return to Côte d'Ivoire now that things are stable again, with the help of the International Organization for Migration (IOM). "IOM provided housing for us until our departure and helped with all the

necessary administrative procedures," she explains. They stayed at IOM Algeria’s temporary protection housing facility, supported by the North Africa Migration and Development Project (NAMAD), funded by UK International Development from the UK government.

Since April, under the NAMAD project, 114 vulnerable migrants have received temporary shelter and assistance offered by IOM at this facility, which was launched in August 2023. The centre supports migrants in extreme vulnerability, including those with complicated medical cases, survivors of trafficking, survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, and unaccompanied or separated migrant children.

During her time at the centre, Clarisse benefited from mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) and vocational training activities in artisanal cosmetology. She also received individual counselling with a psychologist, as did her son, who participated in sessions dedicated to the children temporarily hosted at the facility. "These activities were crucial in helping us heal and prepare for our new life," Clarisse notes.

Now safely back in Côte d'Ivoire, Clarisse is determined to reintegrate and contribute positively to her country while continuing to provide her son with a stable and loving environment. "I know the challenges ahead, but I’m ready to face them with resilience, wisdom, and experience," she says.

Her journey has taught her many valuable lessons, and she is committed to passing these on to her son. "I only want to keep the positive from my journey—the precious lessons I’ve learned and the kind people who helped me. I want to share that with my son and help him grow into a strong, compassionate person."