NEW FACES OF SLOVENIA
Read Sally’s story.
Who am I?
I am a graduated pharmacist by profession. I also have a teaching diploma, as I worked for several years as a science and chemistry teacher in Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. I spent eight years in the UAE and continued my career in education there. I am 40 years old.
Coming to Slovenia
I moved to Slovenia three years ago when my husband received a job offer here. Moving to a new environment was not easy, the biggest challenge was the language. Although I attended courses and worked very hard to improve my knowledge of Slovenian, the language remains a barrier – especially for work in healthcare, where a C1 level is required.
Living in Slovenia
At first, as a very sociable person, I found myself in a completely new situation – I almost developed a social phobia. But gradually, I began to integrate into society. I worked as a volunteer cultural mediator, where I helped other migrants and refugees navigate their new environment. This work fulfilled me greatly.
This year, I joined the Social Activation program, which is intended to support the integration of migrants. This program has helped me a lot to feel more connected to society. Although there aren’t many Egyptians in Slovenia, I found support among others who faced similar challenges as I did.
My accomplishments here
I am most proud of my progress – that I have improved my language skills, got involved in the local community, and built important connections. I know that inclusion requires a lot of effort, dedication, and patience.
Challenges and solutions for better integration of newcomers to Slovenia,
according to Sally:
In my opinion, the key elements for better integration of foreigners in Slovenia are: accessible language programs, mentorships that connect migrants with locals, and the recognition of foreign qualifications. Furthermore, multicultural events and awareness programs should be encouraged in workplaces and schools, as this strengthens the sense of belonging and builds a more inclusive society.
I believe that every person, regardless of their background, needs a sense of belonging – a small community that accepts them. That has helped me the most.
Let’s fight the stereotypes, prejudices and discrimination. Every individual deserves the opportunity to participate in society on an equal footing. Let’s stand together for a more inclusive and equitable future.
“The views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the EACEA can be held responsible for them.”
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒋𝒆𝒄𝒕 “𝑩𝑶𝑫𝑬/𝑩𝒓𝒆𝒛 𝑶𝒗𝒊𝒓 𝑫𝒐 𝑬𝒏𝒂𝒌𝒐𝒔𝒕𝒊” 𝒊𝒔 𝒇𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭𝟒𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐬 𝒊𝒏 𝑺𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒂 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑵𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 – 𝒕𝒐 𝑱𝒖𝒏𝒆 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓.
You can read more about the BODE+ project HERE.
In cooperation with ADRA, the project is also on this page.
