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www.mihub.eu Page | 2 Editorial Welcome Message from miHUB Coordinator Every voice tells a story. Every story builds bridges. Welcome to miHUB magazine where migration experiences become powerful narratives of connection. This innovative online magazine amplifies the voices of people served by the Migrant Information Centers (MIC) while fostering meaningful dialogue with the broader local community. Our mission is simple yet vital: to encourage intercultural communication and build mutual understanding between all residents of Cyprus. Building on this foundation, the magazine emerges from a robust support network comprising the collaboration between NGOs, government agencies, and volunteer organizations dedicated to strengthening social cohesion and integration. We believe that when diverse voices come together, entire communities flourish. As an independent and accessible publication, it seeks to keep us connected to each other and to the pulse of our evolving society. Through shared stories, we actively participate in building bridges of inclusion for community members from diverse backgrounds. Furthermore, this effort is more than a magazine, it's a platform where community members from diverse backgrounds share authentic experiences, creating understanding through personal narratives. Here, you'll discover compelling migration stories, insights into life in Cypriot society, and the rich cultural tapestry that makes our community unique. With this vision in mind, we invite you to be part of this creative journey. Share your memories from home, your experiences discovering Cyprus, your poetry and stories, traditional recipes, community news, and local activities. Every contribution celebrates the diverse perspectives that enrich our society. Whether you're a reader discovering new perspectives or a contributor ready to share your story, miHUB magazine welcomes you. Together, we're building a space where every voice is heard and every story matters. Join us in creating something extraordinary. miHUB Coordinator Dr. Stefanos Spaneas - Scientific Coordinator
www.mihub.eu Page | 3 Information about the Project The University of Nicosia, in collaboration with the research οrganization CARDET, announces the relaunch of the project "Migrant Info-Centres (MIC)" - AMIF/S02/2024/7, co-funded by the European Asylum, Migration, and Integration Fund (AMIF) and the Republic of Cyprus. The project will be implemented from October 7, 2024, to October 6, 2025. The Migrant Info-Centres, operating in Nicosia, Larnaca, Famagusta, Limassol, and Paphos, provide essential support services to beneficiaries of international protection and migrants residing in Cyprus, facilitating their effective integration into local communities. The MIC Centers offer guidance on rights and obligations, translation and interpretation services, employment and housing assistance, educational opportunities, and referrals to relevant organizations. Support is delivered through tailored approaches, including social and psychological assistance, personalized communication, digital tools, advocacy, and collaboration with governmental services. The primary areas of service include: • Employment • Education • Health • Social care • Elimination of social and economic inequalities By addressing key integration challenges, the Migrant Info-Centres play a vital role in fostering inclusion and empowering migrants to build a stable future in Cyprus. The centers operate six days a week, including Sundays. Operating hours are Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Nationwide Contact Number: 7778 7040 Website: www.mihub.eu , Email: info@mihub.eu
www.mihub.eu Page | 4 Stories of Migrants / “Roots & Routes” From Struggle to Strength: A Migrant Mother's Journey of Integration and Empowerment in Cyprus By Irene Che Country of Origin: Cameroon Current Residence: Cyprus (7 years) Age: 31 In 2018, I arrived in Cyprus seeking safety and a fresh start, carrying the heavy weight of personal loss. The crisis in Cameroon had already taken so much from me and the sense of security I once knew. Back home, I worked passionately as a marketing manager in a private company. But the threat to my life forced me to leave everything behind. What I didn’t anticipate was that just a few months later, I would give birth to my son and begin my journey in Cyprus as a single mother. With no family around and no opportunity to work due to childcare responsibilities, the early years were incredibly challenging. I was alone in a foreign country, raising a child while carrying the trauma of my past. During those isolating days at home with my newborn, I started seeking ways to reconnect with myself. I found hope and purpose through online workshops organized by various NGOs and civil society organizations. These workshops were life-changing. They gave me a platform to share my experiences related to migration and human trafficking and connect with others who faced similar challenges. One such connection was with an organization called Room of Hope. It became a safe and supportive space for me—a place where I could grow and heal. Later, I joined another impactful group, New Haven (meaning “A Safe Place”), where I further developed my interpersonal skills and built emotional resilience. These communities became my anchor, and I often reflect on how different my life might have been if I hadn’t met such empowering and positive people. Consistency became my superpower. I kept showing up—to workshops, training sessions, and every available opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute. My son was, and still is, my greatest motivation. Every sleepless night and tough moment were fueled by the determination to build a better future for him. Along the way, many people gave unsolicited advice—telling me what I should do or how I should live. But what kept me grounded was the network of NGOs I had already connected with. They gave me the right information at the right time, and I made use of nearly all the NGOs operating in Cyprus in one way or another. Each of them has impacted me deeply, and I remain grateful for their unwavering support. In 2022, a breakthrough moment came when the Cyprus Refugee Council, with whom I had participated in many workshops, recommended me for a three-month training with Synthesis. It came at one of the most difficult times in my life, but I didn’t let fear or uncertainty stop me.
www.mihub.eu Page | 5 Accepting that opportunity marked a turning point in my integration journey. The training opened doors to new opportunities and strengthened my confidence. Soon after, I began speaking at events like Youth in Migration, and became a panel speaker at major conferences such as the Cyprus Forum. These experiences solidified my voice in the migration and integration space. Today, I am proud to work in Cyprus as a Junior EU Project Officer and Expert Advisor on Human Trafficking and Integration. My lived experience as a trafficking survivor fuels my advocacy and professional mission. I regularly participate in conferences, seminars, and policy discussions, both in Cyprus and abroad. I’ve pursued leadership and coaching training, learned basic computer and first aid skills, and continuously invested in my personal and professional development. I have had the honor of addressing international audiences, traveling for advocacy work, and networking with ministers, ambassadors, and other key stakeholders. These milestones remind me of how far I’ve come—and how proud I am of myself. However, the journey has not been without ongoing challenges: • Raising a child alone and balancing parenthood with work responsibilities • Limited access to childcare during work travel • Language barriers and cultural adaptation • The psychological impact of past trauma • Discrimination and lack of access to nationality, which hinders full societal integration Despite these hurdles, I remain determined. Cyprus has helped shape the person I am today, giving me space to grow personally and professionally, even if full inclusion is still a work in progress. To my fellow migrants, especially those still waiting for asylum decisions: I know how overwhelming the uncertainty can be. I understand the hopelessness, the isolation, and the loss of motivation. But while you are in that waiting period, don’t stop living. Don’t stop learning. Seek out NGOs, attend workshops, and take part in training programs. These are the spaces where transformation begins. You don’t need to have everything figured out. You just need to keep showing up. And remember—I failed many times before reaching where I am today. Every failure taught me something. Every setback made me stronger. Every closed door encouraged me to knock louder on the next one. Your consistency is your key. Your community is your compass. Keep moving forward!
www.mihub.eu Page | 6 The voice of the miHUB Team From Another Planet! by Myria Pareklisiotou Social Worker My little friend is nine years old. They call him Omar. I don’t know if that’s his real name, but I call him that too. He speaks differently from me. Even though he now lives in the house across the street, I truly believe he came from another planet... You see, at Christmas, when the whole world was celebrating in their brightly lit homes and everyone had gathered on their balconies to watch the fireworks, Omar was crying. He was terrified of the fireworks. He didn’t like them at all. But they were so beautiful—bursting in the sky with rhythm and sparkle, full of color and sound... Omar was shaking with fear, crying non-stop, covering his ears tightly, curling up in his mother’s skirt... He must be from another planet. And yet—Omar is from another planet. On his planet, when those sounds reached his ears, they meant death. He had to hide under the table, under the bed, inside a closet... Each of those sounds stole pieces of his childhood. Omar had to find a way to survive. His mother and father couldn’t protect him—they too were broken, just like everything around them. But Omar made it. He crossed skies and seas and arrived on our planet... Here, everything is different. Strange places. People walk freely, laugh, sing, dance, and play... All of it so unfamiliar to Omar. Now, each of those sounds means joy, not terror. Omar is finally a child again. He plays with the neighbourhood kids—kids he doesn’t even understand, and yet, in some magical way, they manage to communicate, playing together for hours on end! Now, at last, Omar is a child. He has found his place on this planet.
www.mihub.eu Page | 7 Activities Training Sessions for mi-HUB Staff As part of launching the mi-HUB initiative, comprehensive training sessions were conducted for staff members serving urban centers across Nicosia, Larnaca, Limassol, Famagusta, and Paphos. These strategically located centers ensure that services are accessible to the target group. The initial training program began with an overview of mi-HUB's purpose and objectives, followed by detailed exploration of the target group's background, relevant laws and regulations, and the theoretical framework guiding staff's practical work. To enhance their understanding and ability to respond to the target group's needs, staff members worked through real case studies, collaborated with colleagues, and shared different approaches for handling cases based on their professional expertise. This practical approach ensured that mi-HUB staff were fully prepared to deliver quality services from the project's start.
www.mihub.eu Page | 8 Strengthening Cross-Border Collaboration: Caritas Germany Visits miHUB Cyprus miHUB Cyprus welcomed two social workers from Caritas Germany for a professional exchange on migrant support services. The visit took place on April 28th, 29th and 30th. The meeting provided both organizations an opportunity to share experience and discuss approaches to community integration. During their sessions, both organizations discussed strategies for helping migrants rebuild their lives and settle in new communities. They exchanged ideas on service delivery methods, integration practices, and support structures that help people transition successfully when starting over in a new country. The visit strengthens miHUB's work in building professional networks that serve our communities, ensuring people receive quality support as they establish new lives and connections.
www.mihub.eu Page | 9 miHUB Professionals Participate in Theory of Change Project Training On May 14th, miHUB team members attended the training session of WP3 within the Theory of Change project, co-funded by the European Union and the AMIF, joining a diverse group of professionals dedicated to supporting children with migratory backgrounds. The intensive workshop brought together miHUB staff with social workers, psychologists, legal advisors, and youth workers to examine contemporary approaches in multilingual education and intercultural support. Participants engaged with practical methodologies specifically developed for children at beginner to elementary language proficiency levels. During the session, our team explored the comprehensive Toolkit, which addresses six essential thematic areas ranging from personal introduction skills to health and emotional expression. The training also featured the Game Bank, a curated collection of interactive resources designed to facilitate second language development while building cultural awareness and emotional security. The project emphasized experiential learning through role-playing scenarios, collaborative group work, and reflective discussions. These methodologies provide miHUB professionals with actionable strategies that directly support our mission of creating nurturing environments where migrant children can develop linguistically, socially, and emotionally. This professional development opportunity supports miHUB's commitment to evidence-based practice and continuous improvement in our service delivery. The knowledge and tools gained through this training will enhance our capacity to support the children and families within our community, ensuring they have access to quality resources that promote integration and personal growth. For more information, please visit the project's website: https://tocproject.eu/
www.mihub.eu Page | 10 Employment Rights Information Session: Supporting Asylum Seekers and Refugees in Cyprus On May 29th, the Migrant Information Center – MiHub Famagusta organized a comprehensive information session in partnership with the Cyprus Refugee Council, focusing on employment rights and workplace navigation for asylum seekers and refugees in Cyprus. The three-hour session addressed critical aspects of employment in Cyprus, providing participants with essential knowledge about worker rights, practical employment guidance and opportunities for interactive discussion. The program was structured to accommodate both individuals currently in employment and those actively seeking work opportunities. Key areas covered during the session included understanding fundamental worker protections, accessing employment resources, and navigating workplace challenges specific to the Cypriot context. The collaborative format encouraged participants to share experiences and engage directly with expert facilitators from both organizations. Held at MiHub Famagusta's offices on Leoforos Eleftherias Street, the session reflects our ongoing commitment to providing practical support that addresses the real-world needs of our community members. This type of targeted programming demonstrates the value of strategic partnerships in delivering comprehensive services.
www.mihub.eu Page | 11 MIHUB at World Refugee Day Festival MIHUB was delighted to join the World Refugee Day Street Festival on June 13th at Faneromeni Square. As an organization dedicated to helping vulnerable migrants across Cyprus feel protected, safe, informed, and supported, this festival represented the heart of what we do: empowering people to move forward with their lives. Our interactive stand showcased the wide range of services we provide through our centers in Nicosia, Larnaca, Limassol, Paphos and Famagusta. Visitors learned about our free guidance on rights and obligations, translation and interpretation services, employment and housing assistance, and educational opportunities. We explained how our referral network connects individuals with relevant organizations for specialized support. Our experienced team was on hand to discuss our person-centered approach, which addresses both immediate needs and long-term integration goals. From job placement assistance to language learning opportunities, we showed how information and support services can improve lives and bring communities together. The festival provided the ideal opportunity to celebrate multiculturalism while connecting with both migrants seeking support and local community members interested in understanding integration processes. It confirmed our belief that when people have access to the right information and support, they can successfully build new lives while enriching the communities they join.
www.mihub.eu Page | 12 miHUB's Participation in the 14th Annual Strawberry Festival in Deryneia On Friday, June 6, 2025, miHUB participated in the 14th Annual Strawberry Festival at the Anagennisi Stadium in Deryneia. From 16:00 to 21:00, our team was present at the venue to inform the public about our services and strengthen our presence in the local community. Throughout the event, we distributed informational materials and made connections with local stakeholders and professionals to build new partnerships. The Deryneia Youth Group showed strong interest in miHUB's work and suggested organizing joint multicultural activities in the near future. During our discussion, we also explored the possibility of using "The Garaz," a multipurpose venue near the buffer zone, to host such events. A significant moment of the day was meeting with the Minister of Interior, Mr. Constantinos Ioannou. We presented the scope of miHUB's work and brought several local challenges to his attention. The Minister listened carefully, expressed his appreciation, and recognised the team for its contribution and ongoing efforts. The Deputy Mayor of Deryneia, Mr. Nikos Lilis, was also present and requested a follow-up communication regarding the provision of clothing and food supplies to continue our existing cooperation. miHUB's participation in the Strawberry Festival highlighted the importance of engaging with the local community and confirmed the value of such initiatives in promoting social inclusion and intercultural understanding.
www.mihub.eu Page | 13 miHUB Launches Weekly Radio Program: "A Radio Journey Beyond Borders" The Migrant Information Center is proud to present our weekly radio program, "A Radio Journey Beyond Borders," broadcasting every Friday from 13:00 to 14:00 on Cut-Radio 95.2 FM. Since its launch on Friday, May 30, 2025, hosts Myria Pareklisiotou and Christos Georgiou present an engaging hour of programming that combines personal narratives, thoughtful discussions and diverse musical selections from around the world. The program creates connections across cultures and communities through the universal language of storytelling and music. This initiative shows miHUB's ongoing dedication to creating spaces for dialogue and connection within the broader Cypriot community. The radio program serves as both an information resource and a cultural bridge, bringing together listeners from various backgrounds through shared stories and music. Community members are encouraged to tune in every Friday and follow the program for regular updates and exclusive content.
www.mihub.eu Page | 14 This magazine was published in the framework of the implementation of the project “Migrant Information Centers (MIC)”, which is co-funded by the European Union and the Republic of Cyprus. The content of this document represents the views of the authors only and is their sole responsibility. The European Commission does not accept any responsibility for use that may be made of the information it contains. The European Asylum, Migration and integration Fund, the Republic of Cyprus and the final Beneficiary of the Project, are not responsible for any inaccuracies in the content of the electronic magazine and for any problem may be cause by it. δικαιώματα του ηλεκτρονικού περιοδικού του Έργου ανήκουν στη Διεύθυνση Ευρωπαϊκών Ταμείων του Υπουργείου Εσωτερικών της Κυπριακής Δημοκρατίας. Οι πληροφορίες αι έχουν συλλεχθεί από την επιστημονική ομάδα του έργου “Migrant Information Center (MIC)’’ AMIF/SO2/2024/7. Ταμείο για το Άσυλο, τη Μετανάστευση και την Ένταξη, η Κυπριακή Δημοκρατία, ο τελικός Δικαιούχος του Έργου (Ανάδοχος n of the Project Migrant Info-Center (MIC) - Project Number: AMIF/SO2/2024/7., is co-funded by the European Commission from the Asylum Migration and Integration Fund (75%) lic of Cyprus (25%). The content of this document represents the views of the authors only and is their sole responsibility. The European Commission does not accept any or use that may be made of the information it contains. Asylum, Migration and integration Fund, the Republic of Cyprus and the final Beneficiary of the Project, are not responsible for any inaccuracies in the content of the electronic or any problem may be cause by it.
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