“Ustura”, which means “myth” in Arabic, is the name of the restaurant that Shaimaa Al Kinani is opening, and she is celebrating with an opening party on October 31st at 15:30, 29 Valaoritou Street, in the center of Thessaloniki.
After four years in Greece, Shaimaa’s love for cooking and her need to create her own space led her to seek support from the Employability Service of the Blue Refugee Centre (BRC) of SolidarityNow in Thessaloniki.
There, through the BRC Livelihoods programme, implemented in collaboration with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, the employability counselors stood by Shaimaa’s side, step by step, helping her turn her dream into reality.
From obtaining the necessary permits and documents, to communicating with the relevant authorities, offering advice on entrepreneurship in Greece, and providing daily emotional support to a woman striving for autonomy through her work, the Employment Service counselors were Shaimaa’s allies.
Therefore, together, Shaimaa and the partners from SolidarityNow and UNHCR invite the residents of Thessaloniki to a celebration for the opening of her restaurant, which is also an invitation to a celebration of cultures, acceptance, and recognition!
We look forward to seeing you!
Αbout SolidarityNow
SolidarityNow is a non-governmental organization established in 2013 to respond to the needs and ensure the rights of the most vulnerable social groups. The organization’s vision is to improve people’s lives and empower them to fight for a more justice and inclusive society. From 2013 until today, SolidarityNow has supported through its actions and programs (housing, psychosocial support, legal assistance, interpretation, education, child protection) more than 350,000 of our vulnerable fellow human beings to claim a life with dignity and prospects.
About UNHCR
UNHCR is a global organization dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights, and building a better future for people forced to flee their homes because of conflict and persecution. We are present in Greece since 1952, trying to ensure the protection and integration of refugees and asylum-seekers in the country. UNHCR has developed initiatives and tools to link refugees in Greece with the labour market, implements vocational training, education and livelihoods programmes. The Office in Greece also focuses on awareness-raising activities and works with the Greek authorities, civil society actors, cities and municipalities, the private sector and the local and refugee communities to promote inclusion policies at local and national level so that refugees can thrive in and contribute to their new home.
