A refugee from Iraq shared his incredible journey with local schoolchildren recently, leaving a lasting impression across six schools.

Hawkar, who fled from Iraqi Kurdistan, spoke to students about his life-threatening journey to the UK and his subsequent achievements, inspiring many with his resilience and determination.

Arriving in Britain in 2017 aged 18 with no English and no formal education, Hawkar’s story captivated students from Brecon High School, Crickhowell Primary, Llangattock, Llangynidr, and two sites of Ysgol Golwg Pen y Fan. His childhood in Mosul, spent helping his grandparents on their farm, was abruptly disrupted by ISIS, forcing them into a refugee camp. His escape to Europe, which involved crossing borders through Turkey, Greece, Italy, and France, was fraught with danger, including being smuggled across the continent at knife-point, hiding under trucks, and enduring months of uncertainty.

Despite these harrowing experiences, Hawkar remained determined. After a perilous three-month journey, he arrived in the UK with no guarantee of safety. Overcoming numerous challenges, including being twice denied asylum, he earned GCSEs in Math and Chemistry by 2018, followed by A-levels and a place at Swansea University to study pharmacy.

One Brecon High School pupil described Hawkar’s story as “extremely motivating and inspirational,” noting the courage it took to overcome such adversity. “It filled us all with hope and happiness,” they said. Another pupil praised his bravery, acknowledging that his story made them feel more respectful toward refugees.

Now in his third year of a Master’s degree, Hawkar was recently recognised with the Inspirational Student of the Year award in Wales, and he will soon begin his career as a pharmacist in the NHS.

Hawkar’s visit was arranged by Hay, Brecon, and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees.

Hawkar, whose name means ‘help’ in Kurdish, continues to give back to the community that offered him sanctuary.