Najat Ougali

Najat Ougali
12/07/1997
Tinghir, Morroco

I was born in a village very close to the desert. My childhood was simple and happy; I remember spending my time playing with my friends and discovering the world around me. My grandmothers taught me the family’s customs and traditions and gave me life advice: to be patient, to respect others, to take care of myself and my health, and to help those in need. As a child, I dreamed of becoming a doctor, but I married at 18 and was not able to continue my studies. We left Morocco in search of a better future for ourselves and our children.
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In Porto I like the weather, the tranquillity, and the opportunities I find in education and healthcare. Here I do not feel racism. My neighbours are helpful and attentive, and on the paths I walk every day I am welcomed with smiles and a “good morning” that makes me feel embraced.
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Being far from my family brings me sadness, but the desire for a more stable life brought me here. I face some challenges: the Portuguese language is still a barrier, delays in obtaining residence permits require patience and persistence, and problems related to the housing crisis have affected us. Still, I move forward with hope for safer and more peaceful days.
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In the future, I dream of a more stable life and a safe home. I wish for my children to have access to excellent education and to grow up in a world where they can live with dignity, peace, and tranquillity.