As part of the “Syrian Successes” series launched by the Syrian Future Movement to highlight distinguished Syrian figures in the fields of science, work, and creativity around the world, today we celebrate Syrian Khalaf Al-Khalaf, recipient of the “Graduate of the Year 2025” award from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. This award is in recognition of his pioneering role in supporting refugees and his inspiring model of integration and academic and societal excellence.
An exceptional journey that began in the shadows:
Born in 1988, Khalaf fled Syria ten years ago after being kidnapped by ISIS. He was working as a nurse at a children’s hospital affiliated with Doctors Without Borders.
After settling in the Netherlands, he mastered both Dutch and English and completed his academic career with distinction, earning a BA in Middle Eastern Studies (2021) and a MA in International Relations (2022) from the University of Groningen.
Today, he serves as a “Team Leader” at VluchtelingenWerk Nederland, where he mentors new refugees, gives them awareness-raising lectures on integration, and encourages them to take initiative, develop, and actively participate in their new society.
A well-deserved honor and a universal message:
The jury at the Dutch university described Khalaf Al-Khalaf as a “role model,” praising his resilience, achievements, and commitment to others. They considered his story a living proof of the possibility of achieving success despite starting from a harsh reality.
A message from the Syrian Future Movement:
The Syrian Future Movement sees Khalaf Al-Khalaf’s story as a shining example of what Syrians can achieve when they are provided with a fair environment and educational and professional opportunities that preserve their dignity and unleash their potential.
It is an explicit call to reconsider refugee policies and to move from a logic of temporary containment to one of empowerment and recognition, and from viewing Syrians as victims to empowering them as active, productive, and capable individuals.
A Tribute to Syrian Humanitarian Action:
We in the Syrian Future Movement believe that building Syria’s future is not based solely on politics, but rather on bright minds, creative arms, and stories that sprout hope from the womb of pain.
Our deepest appreciation and respect to Khalaf Al-Khalaf and to every young Syrian who has chosen the path of progress rather than defeat, and of contribution rather than waiting.
