'From Refugee to Mayor' is a documentary that follows the inspiring journey of Ryyan Alshebl, a 29-year-old from southern Syria who has resettled in Althengstett, Germany. Originally fleeing war-torn Syria eight years ago and surviving a perilous journey that included a dangerous boat ride to Greece, Ryyan has made a remarkable transition from a refugee to the mayor of Ostelsheim.
The documentary highlights the significant emotional and cultural challenges Ryyan faced, including adapting to a new country, learning the language to a high standard, and overcoming the skepticism of local residents who doubted his suitability for leadership due to his youth, inexperience, and refugee status. Despite these obstacles, Ryyan's dedication and ability to connect with the community through an engaging election campaign transformed public opinion.
The narrative also explores his personal life, detailing his family's influence on his education and his struggles with his identity and academic performance in Syria. The documentary underscores the community's eventual acceptance and appreciation of Ryyan, focusing on his pragmatic approach to governance, his plans for local development, and his vision for a modern village center that promotes social interaction across generations.
Ultimately, Ryyan's story is presented as a testament to resilience and integration, showcasing how a young refugee can achieve significant political impact in a foreign land while enriching the community that embraced him. His election as mayor not only represents a personal victory but also serves as a symbol of tolerance and inclusivity in Ostelsheim.
Reflect on the following questions
What does it mean to be a refugee?
Why do refugees flee from Syria?
What is it like to be a refugee?
What challenges do you think Ryyan faced integrating into a new community, and how did he overcome them?
How does Ryyan’s story change or reinforce your views on the capabilities and potential contributions of refugees in foreign communities?
In what ways did Ryyan’s background as a refugee influence his approach to leadership and governance as mayor?
What role did the local community play in Ryyan's journey from refugee to mayor, and how can other communities emulate this support system?
How important is it for political leaders to reflect the diversity of the communities they serve? What benefits does this bring?Discuss the impact of Ryyan's election on the perception of refugees in Ostelsheim and potentially broader regions.
What lessons can other politicians learn from Ryyan's campaign strategy and his way of connecting with the electorate?
Reflect and discuss these questions why listening to the following song.
Song - Exile - Enya
Final Prayer
Gracious God, we offer our prayers for all those who, like Ryyan, find themselves far from the lands of their birth, seeking refuge and a new beginning in unfamiliar places. Bless them with strength as they navigate the challenges of displacement and integration. Guide the communities that receive them, that they may offer support and understanding, and help us all to recognize the enriching gifts that come through embracing diversity and humanity. Inspire us by Ryyan's journey, to act with courage and hope, and work towards a world where every person has a place to call home and the opportunity to contribute positively to society. Amen.
