“Composing and singing songs gives me strength. I transform the difficulties in my life into melodies, rap and hip hop. This way I get to take my breath and carry on.”

“It is nice to be back home with the family and not have to worry about paperwork anymore. But my son and I are left with mixed feelings: part of us never left Brussels.”

“After I returned, I had my house equipped with electricity. The reintegration assistance was very well spent. I wonder how I managed without electricity for so long.”

“With the reintegration assistance, I renovated my house. It was really necessary because it was no longer liveable. Now I am very happy; a good home is the start of a healthy life.”

“Those who cannot register are not citizens, they have no rights. That is still how things are for us in Novi Sad. No education for the children, no support in finding a job or a home. It is very difficult.” 

“My time in Belgium fundamentally changed me. Boys who grow up in Albania learn to act macho. If they don’t, they are easily beaten up. In Belgium, I learnt that it doesn't have to be that way. There, I experienced what personal freedom is.”