Nay Zar is a 23 year girl who is originally from Burma, she came to Denmark about a year ago and is currently living at Avnstrup Asylum Centre while she is waiting to find out if she will receive residency. We first met in December 2014 and we have been in regular contact since. Nay Zar has an amazing positive energy. Every time I meet her at the centre she is in the middle of helping someone in one way or another....
Nay Zar kindly agreed to share her story, thoughts and view on the Danes and our society.
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
My family belongs to the minority ethnic group Rohingya in Burma. The Rohingya people has been the victims of ethnic cleansing and are known as some of the most oppressed people on earth. In 2010 my father was targeted by the Burmese officials and they raided our home. They found critical and hidden documents relating to anti-goverment and their oppression to our people. At the time my father was working with the Rohingya leaders in Burma fighting for basic human rights for our ethnic group. Since then, my father has taken refuge in Denmark. Today he is active in the European Rohingya Community and still works for justice to be served.
In 2012, two waves of Genocide against the Rohingya community flew through the Arkan state in Burma. Subsequently the incidents of horrific and inhuman acts made by the government was widely opened for the world to see. At that point I was a student in Malaysia and actively involved with the students and local communities in Kuala Lumpur, we were campaigning to spread awareness of the Rohingya people and their sufferings. Upon graduation, I came back to Burma and I was interrogated by the police. I received letters threatening me of rape, torture and death. I felt unsafe and I was extremely scared and in the end I fled my country too.
How do you like it here in Denmark?
I love it here. It is quite hard for me to adapt to the weather though, since I come from a tropical region.
really appreciate Denmark's welfare system, it has high taxations which contributes to higher living standards with free education, healthcare etc. People in Denmark live in harmony and value human rights and justice. Denmark has beautiful city life and breathtaking countryside.
What do you think about the Danes? And have you met many people outside the centre?
Yes, I have met some people outside the asylum centre. I would say Danes are a little reserved and private but once you make the first move and get to know them they are kind, warm and friendly. Danes speak their mind and are very honest. And last but not least they all love their bikes.
How did you like the creative workshop with Trine Lindegaard?
I personally loved it. Even though I am not a good drawer, the workshop made me reflect and it gave me the opportunity to know more about my inner self. The facilitators were very friendly and made the environment fun and exciting. I must say we created some very interesting ideas and drawings together.
What are your dreams for the future?
My ultimate dream is to live a happy and fulfilling life where I am content with myself, help others and give back to the society I live in. To start I would continue my education, get a stable ground and get myself a place to call home.