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‘Stories about Roma people’ is a collection of testimonials about people from Roma communities across Europe. By capturing the stories of Roma people who succeeded in becoming influential leaders in their local communities, the European Commission aims to break prejudice and stereotypes that are often directed towards Roma in the EU. These stories represent the inspiring potential of Roma people and firmly overturn the prevailing image of unsuccessful and disempowered Roma. The people presented in the following pages are setting an example for others as they are bringing positive change to their local communities despite having to overcome many obstacles..

Social exclusion and discrimination is still a common part of every-day reality for many Roma across the EU. The violations of fundamental rights, especially in access to education, employment, housing and healthcare, are diminishing the possibilities for the personal and professional growth of the biggest minority in Europe – the Roma people.

'Stories about Roma people’ is one part of the communication activities that were designed by the European Commission under the title ‘for Roma, with Roma’. Through the support and public presentation of various educational, cultural and media events the European Commission aimed to bring some voices of Roma people closer to all citizens of the EU and to tackle discrimination and social exclusion of Roma populations across the EU.

Since the adoption of the «EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies up to 2020» in 2011, the European Institutions and the Member States are making progress in their joint responsibility to implement actions for better integration of Roma through National Roma Contact Points, more efficient EU funding opportunities for Roma inclusion, and legal preventions against anti-gypsyism.

Stories about Roma People 2 Breaking down barriers

Ana Duminica, 23, lives in Bucharest where she has spent the last four years working for the Impreuna Agency for Community Development as a Project Assistant.

Her role is to help children, young people and women develop the confidence and skills needed to change their lives, and the lives of those around them.

“I bring people together to find common ground so we can identify problems and solve them,” said Ana, who is in her final year of studying Advanced Re- search in Sociology and is due to get her Masters Degree later this year.

“I give people the information and tools they need to break down barriers with other communities and achieve their goals.”

Recently youths from a small local Roma community felt disadvantaged because there was no play park for children to play although neighbouring Romanian and Bulgarian non-Roma communities each had one.

They decided what was needed was somewhere for children from all backgrounds to play together. So, youths from the Roma, Bulgarian and Romanian non-Roma communities joined forces to campaign for a new park.

“At first it was difficult convincing people in positions of power who dismissed the views of the youngsters,” said Ana. “But we helped them to organise and find a voice so that within a year the group was able to start building that park.”

“It was a good example of how we don’t have to change the whole world at once, just the world that we live in,” said Ana whose ambition since 7th grade was always to work with children from disadvantaged communities and make a difference”

Ana, who has been recording many of the personal experiences of the people she has been working with, believes sharing such success stories can be a powerful tool for change.

“When one boy read a story I had written about him it changed his life. He shared it with his friends and family. He got more passionate and found new confidence talking to other children in his village. He would show them the story and tell them that if he could better his life so could they.”

Stories about Roma People 3 Leading by example

András Farkas, 24, from Ajka, Hungary is head of a student association which helps poor Roma people.

Born into a family with six brothers and one sister he and his siblings were ins- tilled with a desire to succeed by their hardworking parents. They encouraged their children to find a skill or trade with which to improve their opportunities in life.

“My father was a mineworker for 30 years and my mother had a job in a factory. Now, all my brothers are skilled craftsmen working as a welder, metal worker, turner or carpenter,” said András, who studies singing at Franz Liszt Music Aca- demy in Budapest as a tenor.

While three of his brothers work in Germany and three have jobs at home in Ajka, András has his sights set on an international career as an opera singer.

“I would like to become a famous opera singer at the Opera House in Hungary,” said András, who wants to use his talent to give a voice to the Roma people and set an example, on how they can break away from the stereotyped images which are so often negative.

Since last year András has been at the forefront of an initiative among his fellow students to help disadvantaged children.

“I lead the Student Union at university where I study. I work with 13 other students as a group to help young people. Our most important activity is that we organise a summer camp every year in Budapest for disadvantaged children,” said András, who hopes that within 10 years he will a father of three children himself.

“It’s important to me that our association continues to work well and succeeds in helping as many people as possible. “I enjoy learning from the wide variety of people I meet and I like being able to help them. My hope is that by being successful, and showing a good example with my volunteering, I can inspire more people to get involved and to assist in improving the situation of Roma in Hungary.”

Stories about Roma People 4

Inspiring aspiration

Catalina Olteanu, 28, from Rasuceni village, Giurgiu County, Romania is a Project Coordinator with the Impreuna Agency for Community Development

Her job is to visit schools, encourage Roma children to understand the value of a good education and inspire them to follow the examples of positive role models from the Roma community. So far Catalina has visited more than 100 schools throughout Romania and is convinced things are changing. “I can see it in the eyes of the children, something is happening,” said Catalina.

“I show a film featuring interviews with about 10 people who have been successful as actors, musicians, singers, social workers, teachers and in other professions. All of them are Roma and they share stories about their life and experiences, how they found success and how the children can follow their example. It is the first time many of the children have seen a Roma priest or Roma doctor. They are not used to seeing such role models. There are a lot of negative ideas about Roma people in Romania and we want to show young people it doesn’t have to be that way.”

Catalina, who was born into a poor Roma family and lived with her grandparents in a community without running water and other amenities many non-Roma communities take for granted, can identify with the children she mentors.

“I understand their problems. I walked 3km to school and I faced the same kinds of discrimination they do. But, although my family was poor they realised the importance of education and encouraged me to work hard.”

Initially, Catalina wanted to be a lawyer but being a Roma girl from a poor family she couldn’t afford it so she became a teacher of Romani and Spanish, graduating from the Faculty of Foreign Languages at Bucharest University

“The Roma situation is changing in a positive way. A lot of Roma people go to other countries, see wonderful things happening there, and come back to Romania with a desire for change.

“My work in schools, promoting positive Roma role-models, is part of that movement for change.”

Stories about Roma People 5

Overcoming difficulties

Attila Varga, 26, from Ózd, Hungary is a student and budding journalist with a desire to make a difference.

“It was not easy growing up in Hungary as a Roma man,” said Attila. “My parents were born in a poor blue-collar worker family in Ózd and my mother died of a serious disease when she was 29.”

“When I was very young all the factories were closed in Ózd, during the first half of the 1990’s, so most of the Roma people were forced to move.

“When my father lost his job the whole family moved to Budapest, believing in a better future.”

At first, life in the capital city was hard, especially for the family of a single parent who spent most of his time at work trying to provide for his children.

“My father has worked, and he is still working, very hard to give everything to his family. He is a hero in my eyes. He took care of me and my younger sister despite being by himself,” said Attila.

“In Budapest I was accepted into a segregated elementary classroom, where most of the students were Roma. The quality of the education was very weak and it caused a lot of problems for me. Fortunately, I managed to overcome these difficulties.”

As a child Attila admits he didn’t really have any ambitions. But, as he grew older and found new confidence in his own abilities, Attila realised he didn’t have to settle for a life he didn’t really want. He overcame his educational disadvantages and is now a student at university in Budapest with dreams of becoming a lawyer or a journalist.

“Getting into university made a big difference to my life and that of my family because I hope to be in a position to help my sister’s daughter get into a good school,” he said.

However, he realises that while he has managed to escape the limitations of his early schooling an improved education for all is only the first step in creating a fairer society for Roma people to enjoy a better life in Hungary.

Stories about Roma People 6

Setting an example

Cristina Tanase, 29, from Giuggiu, Romania is leading by example to prove it is possible to be Roma and successful.

Born into a Rudari Roma family, the youngest of five children with three older sisters and a brother, she admits she wasn’t very good at school to begin with. Like many young Roma girls she expected to leave school early, get married and have children. However an opportunity to mix with other people from different cultures inspired her to change her outlook on life and concentrate on her education.

Now, she is a teacher and a passionate activist working with Save the Children Romania as a project manager. She specialises in educational initiatives within the Roma community where there is a very high percentage of children who do not go to school.

One of the projects Cristina is involved with is a specially devised 42-day programme to integrate Roma children, between three and six-years-old, with youngsters from other communities. The aim is to prepare them for mixing with students from different backgrounds at school.

“I really love to see the look on the faces of the children as they get involved with the activities. We have so far integrated more than 500 children into schools over the last three years as a result of this programme,” said Cristina, whose own background means she can identify with the children she mentors.

“Being Roma working for Roma I understand better the culture, what is needed and the problems many of these children face every day,” she said. “My parents did not have much education. My father left school after 8th grade and my mother after 4th grade but they both wanted much more for their children.

“I was not very good in school to begin with but by going to church regularly I got to mix with other people, experience different cultures and get involved in activities with other communities.”

Cristina realised that if she wanted to succeed in life she would have to do better. Years of study paid off as she went to High School, on to college and then got a scholarship for university. “Now, I want to show children that it doesn’t matter if they are Roma or Romanian, rich or poor, we are all the same and we can all be successful.” said Cristina.

Stories about Roma People 7

Voice for change

Marius Tudor, 28, is Project Manager for the Resources Center for Social Inclu- sion CRISS in Romania. He is a former professional football player turned Roma activist and is following a family tradition. He is a Roma from the village of Mărginenii de Jos. which along with Brătăşanca and Filipeştii de Târg make up the almost 7,700 residents of Filipeştii de Târg commune.

He is the son of Gheorghe Tudor, the first Roma councillor to be elected to office to represent the people of Mărginenii de Jos in 1996. Marius has continued his father’s efforts to close the gap that separate the disadvantaged Roma population and their more prosperous non-Roma neighbours.

“My job as a Project Manager is to enable Roma to accept the responsibility to stand up for their rights and give them the support they need to get their voice heard,” said Marius. “I bring representatives from the different communities together so they can use their experiences and resources to harness the power they have to make the changes they want and to identify the issues that need to be prioritised”

“Working as a team we have managed to get the Roma community, which makes up about 35 per cent of the local population in the area, to realise that by electing members of their own ethnic group to office, government can be leveraged to their benefit”

As a result six Roma candidates have been elected to office. They are six out of 15 local councilors and the local com- munity now has access to the electricity network, upgraded schools, pharmacy, paved streets, sport fields, facilities and other benefits.

“The Roma in Mărginenii de Jos have succeeded without EU funds and without private donors; they succeeded because of their own efforts and the power of democracy. The success of Mărginenii de Jos will not appear in a neat impact report or project assessment—this is a story of 20 years of effort, determination, and empowerment.” said Marius, who graduated the Leadership, Organizing & Action: Leading Change Program from Harvard University, in May 2015.

Stories about Roma People 8

Sense of empowerment

Erzsébet Gulyás, 32, works for the Badur Foundation in Hungary, an inter- national charity. The foundation places a great deal of value on education to help those on the margins of society achieve the changes they most want for themselves and their communities.

Erzsébet, who comes from a Roma background, knows from personal expe- rience how challenging it can be growing up in a changing world as a Roma woman.

“There is a huge difference between my generation and the generation that is growing up nowadays. I was born in a previous system. The mobility of my parents was much higher than today, they moved from very poor villages to Budapest. That’s where they got to know each other and where I was born” she said.

Her parents were very supportive and, determined to make something of her life, Erzsébet worked hard at school to eventually graduate with a Master’s degree from the Central European University (CEU), Budapest in sociology and anthropology.

Now, it is her chance to give something back.

“I see my role as being to help the next generation and make their lives easier by encouraging them to get a proper edu-cation,” said Erzsébet who has been involved in establishing the Dr Ámbédkar Secondary School in Miskolc.

The school provides non-segregated and high-quality education to disadvantaged Roma and non-Roma youngsters who would otherwise never have the chance to continue their studies after primary education.

“Sometimes I am totally exhausted at the end of the day,” said Erzsébet. “When I see the extent of the work needed it can be emotionally very hard, it can appear what I am doing is a just a drop in the ocean. But, on other days it’s a wonderful feeling seeing the differences we are making to the life of the next generation of Roma. Even the smallest success can be a major victory.

“Making things possible and helping members of the community on an everyday basis is a really empowering feeling. I could not imagine myself doing anything else.”

Stories about Roma People 9

Building bridges

Zsanett Júlia Szabó, 26, from Nyírlugos city, Hungary considers herself a link between two cultures. Born into a mixed family she grew up with the belief that if she was to make a success of her life the only person she could trust was herself.

“My parents divorced before I was born,” said Zsanett. “But because my mother is Roma and my father Hungarian I always felt, sometimes willingly and some- times unwillingly, I was a link between the two cultures and traditions.

“More importantly, I often felt that I had two identities and as a result my goal has always been to make the most of what I have.”

Zsanett’s dual identity has given her the drive and determination to succeed in everything she sets her mind to.

“I came from a poor family and I had to learn early that I can only trust myself,” she said.

“My motto has always been ‘You have to do something, or nothing’s going to change’. This has been my approach to work, study and life in general ever since I was a child.”

Despite her disadvantaged background Zsanett and her younger step-sister have been encouraged to make the most of their education by their mother, who is also a graduate.

Zsanett is a student at the Medical and Health Science Centre at University of Debrecen with an ambition to become a nurse. She is also the president of a multicultural association that works to help the local community.

“I like to be able to help people and make a difference to the lives of other people,” said Zsanett who believes that improved access to education could reduce the rate of youngsters dropping-out of school and nurture the talents of students that are currently wasted.

To build bridges between Roma and non-Roma communities Zsanett said the basis of a good social coexistence lies partly in boosting confidence among Roma and reducing the negative stereotypes that fuel discrimination against disadvantaged groups.

“Change is slow but things are happening,” said Zsanett.

Stories about Roma People 10

Sharing the caring

Ever since she was a child, Dimitrinka Borisova has had a calling to care for others.

A former health mediator in the small village of Medkovets, one of the poorest areas of North West Bulgaria, she spent five years providing Roma families with advice and information on access to medical services.

Inspired by her frontline experience, the 31-year-old mother of a 10-year old son decided she could do much more with her life, devotion and abilities. She is now working in one of the best hospitals in Sofia after graduating as a registered nurse last year.

“I wanted to study in a good school and afterwards to study medicine,” said Dimitinka, “But that was impossible for me 15 years ago. I am coming from a poor family and there wasn’t opportunities and vision for the future. But there is now. I made it happen!”

“My parents were unemployed. My father worked whenever he could at whatever job he found. They are good and honest people but they did not have good education and life start.”

Determined to improve her chances Dimitrinka became a health mediator in her village, working her way up to become a member of the Board of Trustees to the National Network of Health Mediators – an NGO representing more than 150 Roma health professionals working to improve the access to health services and care for vulnerable people in Bulgaria.

It gave her the confidence to realise her dream to study nursing at university.

“It was a very difficult period of my live, but now I am satisfied with myself,” said Dimitrinka.

“It is difficult being a good nurse in Bulgaria because the working conditions and the remuneration are not good. But, although nursing is a very, very hard job it is making me a better person. I like it when my patients smile when they return to the clinic.”

Now, Dimitrinka is optimistic that things are getting better for next generations.

“I see myself as being successful but I want to see a future in which my son's life, and that of his friends, is even more different. Foremost I want a good education to be accessible to every child so they can pursue their dreams.”

Stories about Roma People 11

Developing confidence

As a child Alexandru Moldovan had to beg on the streets to help support his family. They moved around to find ways to survive, from his birth-place near Alba in Romania to Switzerland, Sweden and France.

Alex is just 17-years-old but he has an old head on young shoulders.

“Everywhere we went my parents tried to register me for school and keep my studies going because my grandfather, who was always a big inspiration, told me that if I didn’t go to school I wouldn’t amount to anything,” says Alexandru.

However, it wasn’t until the family settled in Strasbourg that Alex was given his first real opportunity for success with a place in a ‘second- chance school’. After just a few months learning French he is almost fluent and has found work as an apprentice painter and decorator. Soon, he hopes, he will be able to register for social housing and get out of the caravan he shares with his family in one of the temporary integration spaces in Strasbourg.

“I travelled and lived in across Europe but it was only really once I settled in Strasbourg that I found my first real chance at education at a ‘second-chance’ school.”

“We lived in many slums before living where we are now in Espace 16. It’s much better now and I hope to have an apartment soon,” says Alexandru, one of a number of young Roma who have grabbed the opportunities afforded them and developed a new found confidence. “I want to do something good with my life,” says Alexandru.

“I like my job a lot. I work with 15 others in Strasbourg and the surrounding villages and all the time I am continuing to learn. Now I want to have a proper career and one day open my own painting and decorating business in France.”

Stories about Roma People 12

Spreading the word

A few years ago Georgi Nikolov was working as a volunteer in an Evangelist church in a Roma settlement in his hometown where he saw first-hand many of the hardships faced by families on a daily basis. “I met a lot of people with real problems and I was very angry - both at myself and at the surrounding reality - when I didn’t have any solutions for them,” he said.

“Then I went to Denmark to study social work and development. I learned a lot about social issues and I felt that this was my mission.”

Georgi, aged 28, now works as a health mediator for the Municipality of Samokov where he was born.

“Becoming a Health Mediator happened at the right time for me because now I have a real opportunity to work directly with people and to improve their lives.”

Each day Georgi works closely with families, coordinating a variety of medical projects and working with young Roma on health and educational issues.

Relating to the problems of young Roma is something that Georgi can easily identify with.

“I was never good in school. My parents are separated so I grew up with my grandparents. When I became a teenager I started skipping school to make rap music,” said Georgi, who still enjoys singing in a Hip-Hop band.

Fortunately, despite their problems, Georgi’s family were always supportive.

“My grandfather, a great hard working and self-made man was a mentor and a role model for me.”

As a rap- singer, Georgi is getting more and more popularity and is trying to use it to support his social causes and projects. He is the main actor in useful and innovative initiatives on the ground with Samokov municipality and on projects supporting local initiatives and the delivery of messages about health care to the community.

Stories about Roma People 13

Challenging stereotypes

Unlike other Roma families faced with inequalities throughout their lives Railo Helmstetter considers himself more fortunate than most.

He is the third generation of his family to be brought up within Manouche society free from the deprivations and some of the more blatant discrimination experienced by others. His grandmother was the first woman within their community to obtain a driving licence and find a better job to elevate the family to a more comfortable life.

As a result the 28-year-old bachelor remembers a happy childhood growing up in a loving, supportive family where he and his two sisters wanted for nothing.

Now, a successful musician in demand for his skills as a solo guitar player he lives comfortably in the small town of Barr in Alsace.

Railo admits that it has sometimes been difficult to break free from the stereotypical constraints placed upon him by non-Roma people who fail to see past his ethnicity.

“Life is good. I have started to accompany other musicians and build a name for myself as a guitar soloist. I play with different groups and I also write my own music,” says Railo.

“But, trying to find engagements where I can br ing my own style and not be constrained by event organisers who have a predetermined idea of what I should perform is difficult. They seem to think I should only be doing Gypsy jazz!,” he admits with some irritation.

However, despite the extra effort required to overcome the preconceptions of others Railo concedes he has been charmed in many ways.

“My dream was always to be a musician and make music,” says Railo. “I have achieved that and I am blessed to be able to do a job that I love. How many people can say they have seen their dreams come true?”

Now, he hopes his good fortune can rub off on others and serve as an inspiration to young Roma.

“I think it’s important to present our Gypsy lifestyle in a more positive light. We need to show we can be integrated and keep our culture at the same time,” he says proudly.

Stories about Roma People 14

Setting goals

Ivan Ivanov used to dream of becoming a footballer but now he has a different goal - but one that still requires him to be part of a much bigger team.

Ivan from Biala Slatina was brought up in a very supportive family who encouraged him to be active in sports, do well in school.

“I think that's what turned me into a purposeful and responsible person. I never felt disadvantaged or experienced any shortages,” said Ivan whose mother works in a pharmaceutical factory.

Unfortunately, his father died in an accident two years ago and his sister, who is now 20, was seriously injured - a tragedy which has delayed her ability to take up further education until recently.

Education has always played an important part in Ivanov’s family. His parents encouraged their children to do well at school and when he failed to realise his early dreams of playing professional football he decided to go into teaching instead. Now, aged 24, he is a successful second grade teacher in a primary school in Sofia

“I really enjoy my job. I love the children very much and for me it is a pleasure to work with them every day.” However, the job also has its challenges. “Often I have to discuss things with the parents and solve problems within the family. For me, the really important issue is the welfare and happiness of the children, making sure that each one gets the right support according to their needs.”

Like many Roma of his generation Ivanov has seen changes in social attitudes which are breaking down barriers.

“I managed to get a job immediately after my graduation in University. This is a difficult process in our country and for me this is a very positive change in my life. My success in becoming a teacher gave my family hope that life is getting better,” said Ivanov who is keen to help change many of the negative stereotypes people have of Roma.

“Such a change will be positive not only for Roma but for all society,” said Ivanov.

Stories about Roma People 15

Love without borders

Love knows no boundaries and for Viorel Vasile that meant giving up his job as a legal expert to follow his heart and his wife to Strasbourg.

“There is a widespread misconception that all migrants to France, especially Roma, are economic refugees in search of a better job, housing and a way of life,” says Viorel.

“But, as in all societies, there are numerous reasons why people choose to move house, city or country for a new start. For me it was love!”

The 29-year-old gave up his job as a legal assistant on projects for the Roma Education Fund in Romania to accompany his wife Andrea, a trained social worker, to France.

“My family thought I was crazy,” says Viorel, who comes from a family of lawyers and activists in Romania who have always provided him with a string of role models, lots of encouragement to do well in his education and work hard.

While studying to be a lawyer in Romania Viorel did a variety of jobs, serving in shops and banks, before taking up a post in the NGO where he worked up to 12 hours a day for €300 a month

“I gave up my job in a non-governmental association in Romania to work as valet in a car showroom - but that’s just temporary,” says Viorel who hopes that once he’s mastered the language, completed his studies and found a legal job him and his wife can finally settle down properly to their new life.

Currently Viorel and his wife live in a caravan on a municipal site in Strasbourg while they build a new life for themselves.

“I have a two year plan “says Viorel. “I have a job cleaning cars and it’s a difficult job, really hard work, but it helps me to earn money so I can save to continue with my legal studies in France. At the same time I am learning the French language because I want to be able to enrol at law school within two years. My ambition is to be a great lawyer in France someday.”

Stories about Roma People 16

Diagnosis for change

Now in his final year at university in Sofia studying medicine Miroslav Angelov, aged 30, is one of a new up-and-coming generation realising their dreams as a result of better education and changing social attitudes.

Born into a simple family living in limited conditions within the Roma neighbourhood of Hristo Botev in Sofia he was encouraged at a young age to get a good education.

“My parents finished only secondary education...but I grew up in a family where education was a priority,” said Miroslav. Unfortunately, both of Miroslav’s parents died young and did not see the success he has made of his life.

“When I was a child I had a dream to be a doctor, to do something with medicine. All the people in my settlement called me “doctor” and supported me,” said Miroslav who was brought up by his grandmother after his parents died.

Miroslav now spends a large part of each day visiting the hospitals which are part of the university, attending meetings with colleagues and sharing information with other medical professionals to find solutions for his patients’ problems.

“I like making contact with people, listening to their personal stories and helping with their problems, many of which are related to health issues.”

Now that Miroslav has achieved the first stage of his dream, his determination to be the best doctor possible grows with his confidence.

“My dreams are becoming larger everyday” said Miroslav. “The biggest is related to my future career in the medical field – I want to be a very good cardiologist.”

Miroslav is in no doubt his success to date has been aided by changing attitudes in Roma and wider society.

“Now, I want to see more young and educated people who strive to achieve their dreams remain here in Bulgaria instead of taking their skills abroad. Together we can work to develop a better society for all.”

Stories about Roma People 17

Breaking down barriers

Joséphine Adolf, whose Manouche name is Balaika, is from Strasbourg and knows personally what it’s like to be an outsider. As a child she grew up in a Manouche family that didn’t speak French and was, until her generation, relatively uneducated.

“We lived in a caravan but we didn’t travel. We did eventually move to an apartment but my father died when I was very young.” says Joséphine, “I never went to kindergarten and when my siblings went to school they didn’t speak French - so it was very hard. My mum couldn’t read or write but she made sure we all went to school.”

Years later her mother’s determination has paid off. Now, at 44-years-old, Joséphine has two diplomas, is recently graduated and enjoys a satisfying career as a mediator between children and parents of Manouche families and schools and kindergartens.

“I help children with their homework, run out of school activities and help parents to understand what they need to know about the school process.”

As a mother of two boys, aged 10 and 13, and an eight-year-old daughter she can relate to worries and concerns from parents and provide the assurances they need to send their children to school.

Unlike many Manouche women who see their main role in life as a housewife, Josephine always knew she wanted a career outside the home.

“When my mother died I had to stop going to school and get a job,” says Josephine. “I started working in a library, helping children, and I enjoyed it very much. That’s when I realised I wanted to do more.

“The end of my story is not yet written, but I would really like to continue my work and training with Lupovino so that I can help families even more. I would like my own children to continue their education too and I will support them whatever their choices.

“But I also want to pass on my mother tongue of Manouche, as well as my traditions. I am proud to be able to be a representative for my community,” says Josephine.

Stories about Roma People 18

Designing a brighter future

Providing access to a good education and inspiring aspiration among the young can help to lay the foundation of a better society for all, according to Roma activist Paola Patseva

The 25-year-old student from Sofia is a project assistant at the Trust for Social Achievement where she participates in monitoring, data collection and reporting for the “Springboard for School Readiness” Project.

“I have been involved with the programme for early childhood development for the last two years. We improve access to kindergarten for children from vulnerable groups and help support children to be ready for school,” said Paola who believes the work she does can help transform the lives of the children, their families and the wider community.

“I like everything about my job, I like that I have the opportunity to work with vulnerable children from Roma communities and give them the chance to have the same opportunities as other students when they start going to school.”

Paola, who also works as an intern at a publishing house, while she finishes her diploma work in Graphic and Print Design at the New Bulgarian University, is no stranger to hard work.

As the only child of working parents she was largely brought up by her grandparents who lived in a Roma neighbourhood in the town of Lom. Paola believes there has not been much improvement in recent years in the living conditions of ordinary Bulgarians.

“Maybe there have been some small changes in Roma communities, but they are very small and some of them are short-lived,” she said.

Despite what she perceives as a general malaise, coupled with the ongoing stigma of negative stereotypes which fuel discrimination against Roma, Paola maintains her ambition of one day being able to make a positive difference to the lives of others.

“I want to live in a country where people do not hate but accept one another and live peacefully. A place where there is no discrimination or stereotypes and people are interested in the development of society for all.”

Stories about Roma People 19

Disarming discrimination

Fighting prejudice and working to improve the lives of Roma has become a personal crusade for mother-of-two Fatima Herchi.

The 25-year-old from Umirea, Albo County, Romania came to France with her husband, who was looking for work, and to create a better life for their family - two boys aged four-years and two-months. But, initially, she wasn’t made very welcome.

“When I first came to France I experienced discrimination and it hurt,” says Fatima. “I got a job in a sandwich shop and after two days the boss asked if I was a gypsy. I have a diploma and a degree and I work hard. That is what should be important but he fired me anyway.

Fortunately, Fatima found support from the Roma support office in Strasbourg.

“I told them I wanted to study and to work and not end up begging on the streets. They helped me get a job with the Croix Rouge in Espace Hoche and it has completely changed my life,” she says.

Fatima now works as a social educator and mediator with the Croix Rouge and is determined to help others avoid the same problems

“I am committed to helping the lives of Roma people,” says Fatima who, along with her two sisters, grew up in a family where education was prized.

“My dad is a truck driver who speaks eight languages. He is a studious man and was involved in local politics with the Roma party,” says Fatima.

“I had the best grades in school and I always work hard to be the best, I never give up,” says Fatima, who has become something of an inspiration for many women in her community.

“It is my duty to help other Roma to integrate, go to school and find work. I am just at the beginning of my professional career but I have lots of creative ideas about how to change things.

“I can see my dreams being realised and I also see the Roma community changing so I am happy to be a role model and help create more change.”.

Stories about Roma People 20

Changing dreams

Like most mothers, Anife Hasan from Dobrich has a simple ambition - to see her sons enjoy a better life. As a youngster Anife used to harbour ambitions to be a doctor in a hospital but her background and family circumstances made it an unattainable dream.

“For me it was impossible to graduate from Medical University - higher education seemed very distant and unattainable for me as a Roma girl from a Roma settlement. Nobody in my community had been to higher education, nobody supported me.” said Anife.

Education was never seen as a priority within her community, especially not for Roma girls who rarely got the chance to complete secondary education, let alone to study at a university.

However, Anife didn’t give up. Last year, at the age of 42, she graduated with a High University qualification in primary school pedagogy.

Although she was unable to achieve her dream to be a doctor she does work as a health mediator, and is now deputy chairman of the National Network of Health Mediator Association (NNHM) as well as being chairman of the local Dobrich branch.

“Roma people trust me and I am happy when I can resolve their problems. I am part of a very vulnerable community but now after eight years of working in this community I can say people are more informed and more responsible for their health.” said Anife with pride.

Anife spends much of her working day visiting Roma families in their homes to provide much needed health information on everything from vaccinations for children to prevention of illnesses.

However, it is not an easy job, made all the more difficult by negative stereotypes perpetuated in a media which foster distrust between Roma and non-Roma communities.

“I want to see a Bulgaria where people are accepted and evaluated for the qualities they possess and not for their ethnicity,” said Anife who has two sons, aged 25 and 15.

Stories about Roma People 21

Programming change

If anyone had told Markéta Bahníčková as a little girl that she would one day be writing computer code and carving out a career in IT she would never have believed them.

The 25-year-old from Brno is an intern programming in C++ language and works as an office manager in an Information Technology (IT) company.

“I got interested in IT and programming a year ago when I found out about courses run by an NGO supporting women in the IT sphere. At the same time I got an opportunity to do an internship and although I did not study a technically-oriented degree this area started to interest me. I wanted to learn how to programme and broaden my knowledge so I can get a good job,” says Markéta.

“A year ago I had no idea I would be writing codes. You never know what life brings to you - as a child I wanted to be a cook!” says Markéta, who grew up in Brno where she and her two brothers lived with their parents in a housing estate outside the city centre with almost no other Roma people.

“My mother and father met in Brno when my mother came from Slovakia to work and they ran a business for a while.

“I wasn’t really aware of the importance of the Roma as a child,” says Markéta. “I knew my family was sort of different but I never really had deep concerns about my identity. I only started to take an active interest in this when I entered university.”

Mixing with other Roma has developed within her a keen sense of duty to help others overcome discrimination and achieve their ambitions.

“I would like to see a society that is less hateful and more tolerant,” said Markéta who believes it is important for the Roma community to promote a more positive image of themselves to the world at large.

“When there is an event about Roma people then Roma people should be there. That’s why I like taking part in the event organised by the for Roma, with Roma programme. I like meeting other Roma people who have a similar experience to me. Our discussions are always enriching.”

Stories about Roma People 22

Building a better future

As a child Milena Maková’s greatest dream was to be a flight attendant - but it wasn’t the glamour of flying that attracted her.

“I wanted to visit a country where I would fit in with my colour of skin. Where no one had a problem shaking my hand just because it is darker,” says Milena.

Growing up in Humenné with her younger brother and sister Milena had a happy childhood in an area where Roma and non-Roma families lived happily together.

“In each block of flats there were two or three Roma families,” says Milena who didn’t see her first Roma settlement until she was 19-years-old.

“I did not like it. I did not think it was possible to live in such poor conditions,” says Milena, who initially studied to be a nurse

“I knew then I would have to do something about it. When I could not find a job as a nurse I applied to the University of Constantine the Philosopher in Nitra, Department of Roma Culture. There I received answers to many questions I had relating to Roma, history, culture and language which helped me understand myself and the situation of the Roma in Slovakia and worldwide.

“Now I try to improve the lives of Roma wherever and however I can. I want to help remove prejudices and misunderstandings by improving communication between Roma and non-Roma.”

Married with two sons, the 40-year-old works in the municipal office in Banská Bystrica as a social worker helping families that find themselves homeless and on the streets, often through no fault of their own.

“I work with families with children in difficult situations and 99 per cent of my clients are Roma. Often they find themselves on the streets because they are forcibly evicted. Many families who get into these situations are likely to have their children placed into an orphanage. They come to us for a "second chance" as we provide comprehensive, individual and dedicated social assistance to help them resolve their situation.

“I know I cannot change everything but I would like to contribute at least a little to a better future,” says Milena

Stories about Roma People 23

Investing in knowledge

Klaudia Vospálková used to dream of having the most powerful job in the world. Now, her ambition is a little more attainable.

“When I was very young they gave us a questionnaire in school asking what we wanted to do when we grew up. I said I wanted to be President of the USA while most of my school mates wanted to be singers,” laughs Klaudia.

“I have always been interested in justice, I think that’s why I said I wanted to be President or, failing that, a politician or a lawyer.”

The 21-year-old student is now in the second year of a lifelong learning programme studying law at Masaryk University Brno and aims to finish her Master of Business Administration (MBA) studies at a Managerial Institute in Prague in September.

Growing up in Spišská Nová Ves, alongside three siblings, she was always told that success doesn’t happen without hard work.

“My mum runs a family restaurant and my father is chief of a recruitment agency and also a municipal representative in Košice. My older brother works in my father’s company as a coordinator, my younger sister and brother go to primary school. I work as a part-time cashier in Brnoin the Cinema City company and help my father in his business,” says Klaudia who is used to being busy.

“Life was always hectic in our house. As a child I had a lot of after-school activities, such as hip-hop, acrobatic rock’n roll and singing. There were always competitions, school Olympic contests and the like,” says the 21-year-old who is close to realising her ambition to become a lawyer.

Within five to 10 years her ambition is to have graduated from Masaryk University and started a successful career as a business lawyer with an

international company or organisation. She also hopes that by working hard and realising her dream she can inspire other Roma to do the same.

“I am a firm believer in the words of former American statesman Benjamin Franklin: ‘An investment in knowledge pays the best interest’,” says Klaudia.

Stories about Roma People 24

People power

Brought up in a large family in Bardejov, Eastern Slovakia it’s no surprise Patrícia Patkaňová likes people.

Her father, a Roma man from Slovakia, has a lot of relatives and it was the home she shared with her parents, two siblings and grand-parents which often became the focal point for extended family meetings

“I have very nice memories of childhood,” says Patricia, 30, whose father, runs a lumber business employing a large number of Roma from the local settlement of Poštárka.

“As far back as I remember I was fascinated with people and their lives. I was always reading books, listening to music, looking at a globe and dreaming of visiting isolated or marginalised communities like my own.”

Patricia, who studied ethnology, works as a Junior Programme Officer for the non-profit organisation EPIC which helps people overcome personal and social difficulties to achieve success.

“Its main mission is increasing employment and employability of disadvantaged persons,” says Patricia.

As someone who has seen the benefits of utilising the potential of people with disabilities to positively influence society Patricia wants to teach others to be more tolerant.

“I would like to see a better education system for Roma children. One where every child gets the individual assistance they need to integrate into mainstream society,” says Patricia, who recognises the benefits for Slovakia on becoming an EU member state.

“I would like to see more Roma working in bars, cinemas, in state offices and in hospitals as doctors and nurses, and not being discriminated against on the grounds of social background, ethnic origin or colour of their skin. The rise of hatred and right-wing extremism against Roma and minorities concerns me. Full social inclusion of Roma will take many years, and it will be very demanding both financially and personally, but it is essential for our country to prosper.”

Stories about Roma People 25

Beating discrimination

As a child Robin Stria thought he might grow up to be a priest or a drum teacher. He is neither, but he is still helping the disadvantaged while beating a path to change.

The 25-year-old bachelor works as a social worker in a youth drop-in club, a role he finds both rewarding and challenging.

“I’m responsible for the activities of mostly Roma children between the ages of 7 and 16 Each day at work is different but one the biggest challenges I face is teaching the youngsters how to be proud of themselves and think positively,” says Robin.

Robin, who grew up in a typical Czech catholic family with seven younger siblings, knows first-hand how discrimination and prejudice can be a negative influence on young minds.

“I was the only Roma child in a huge school so I was bullied,” says Robin. “I always had to justify myself and try harder than everybody else. Even when I had the same results in a test as everyone else it wasn't enough - I had to do more for people to accept me.

“When there was a problem or if something bad happened everyone looked to me just because I was Roma. Discrimination was everywhere, in school and outside. When I went to a store people would watch me in case I tried to steal something.”

However, Robin was encouraged by his mother who was a teacher to ignore the negativity of others and not waste time complaining about injustices.

“My mother taught me not to give up. We are all dealt a set of cards and it's up to us how we play them,” says Robin who tries to pass on the same message to the children he works with.

“There are some people who are prejudiced and will never change but that doesn’t mean the rest of us should stop trying to improve things for everybody else,” says Robin who has also worked as a volunteer teaching non-Roma foster parents how to help Roma children deal with the kinds of issues they might face.

“I want to teach people how to live together,” says Robin. “Where there is love people can grow but where there is hatred nothing can be done or created. “

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Aiming high

Richard Koky is a man on a mission. The 40-year-old retired army Major from Svit, a district of Poprad, has a plan of attack to help better the lives of Roma by improving public health.

The former military man works as a field expert for the National Healthy Communities Project, and is chairman of the Steering Committee of the Platform to promote the health of disadvantaged groups.

“Since childhood I wanted to be a soldier and with my parents’ support, despite their concerns for my safety, I achieved that ambition and stayed more than 15 years on active military service.”

Now, he uses his skills to run the only project of its kind in the Slovak Republic and provide numerous Roma with the help they need to improve their lives.

“I like dealing with the most valuable item which all humans have - our health,” says Richard, who admits the job has its challenges and disappointments.

“Sometimes I feel so desperate and helpless trying to implement the necessary changes in the Roma settlements which could improve the overall quality of life of the Roma.”

The unwillingness of some people in positions of responsibility, in both public and state administration, to implement all of the necessary steps to achieve change in the Roma settlements is a major frustration for Richard.

“In recent years there have been some real positive changes in the quality of life of the Roma in the Slovak Republic in all areas. Certainly, I have two healthy, happy, educated children and I want the same for other Roma,” says Richard who is married with a 20-year-old son studying medicine and a teenage daughter, 17, learning to be a hairdresser.

“I want to make sure as many Roma as possible get the chance to find a job in any area, to be accepted by the majority society and learn to be proud of their heritage. As a community we have to promote the good work being done and encourage other Roma not to surrender but to keep on fighting”.

Stories about Roma People 27

Forward planning

Former policeman Tomáš Śčuka is on a mission to solve the problems of discrimination against Roma.

The 33-year-old activist from Brno runs the 'Youth Roma Parliament', an organisation to educate and train young people between 18 and 35 to become the next generation of politicians.

He believes by encouraging more Roma to take an active interest in politics, changes to living conditions and an end to discrimination can be achieved from within the establishment.

"There are lots of NGOs and other organisations helping around the fringes but the real way to effect change at the heart of the system, is for more young people to get involved with politics.” says Tomáš.

"Our goal is to create a new generation of Roma leaders, some of whom will go on to be politicians involved in local, national and European politics."

Tomáš and six siblings were brought up by their businessman father to respect others and value education.

"My mother died from cancer when I was nine but my father did a great job. We all have a high school education and two of us have university degrees."

Following graduation from university in Prague, Tomáš joined the police but, due to a lack of respect from fellow officers, he reluctantly resigned after just two years.

"My colleagues couldn't accept my Roma identity," says Tomáš. "They didn't want to work with me so every day I was alone in my job. It was very frustrating so I decided to leave."

Tomáš went back to university to study English won a competition to work in the European Parliament. As one of three Roma activists, from a shortlist of more than 200, he spent several months in Brussels learning about politics, strategy and social change.

"That motivated me even more to do something for young Roma in my country," says Tomáš, who knows only too well the prejudice faced by many Roma on a daily basis.

"Unfortunately, this is the reality of life for Roma in the Czech Republic today. There is discrimination in the workplace and all areas of society, and it's getting worse."

"I like the idea of for Roma, with Roma because as Roma we all have to be more active. We need to participate in the debate over issues that impact our community."

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Making a difference

Štefan Vavrek, 33, has one major goal - to make the lives of disadvantaged Roma and non-Roma families better.

“I always wanted to be a footballer like Roberto Baggio. As a child I did not do anything else with my friends but play football,” says Štefan, who now acts as a soccer coach for students in Tornaľa in his spare time.

However, it was in the world of teaching he first found he could make a difference by encouraging young Roma students to study hard so they could seek out better opportunities

Born in Rimavská Seča in Central Slovakia he came from a teaching background - his father, sister, wife and mother-in-law are all teachers. And, although Štefan studied mathematics and ethics at the Faculty of Pedagogy in Nitra, before a six-year stint as a teacher at the Hungarian Elementary School of Ferenc Kazinczy in Tornaľa, it is in the world of politics that he is making the biggest difference.

For the last two years Štefan has been Mayor of Rimavská Seč and works at the Office of the Government Plenipotentiary for Roma Communities.

“As mayor I have a very difficult job. In the village we have a population of 2,000, out of which 1,200 are Roma. We have a very high unemployment rate of over 60 per cent,” says Stefan

“The biggest problem we have is that people do not have work. Although the Roma people would like to work they lack opportunities. The second biggest problem is housing.”

“As a teacher I always stress to parents how important it is for their children to study but I am happiest when I am able to help families improve their housing needs and I can create jobs in the community,” says Štefan, who believes that for proper changes to take place, barriers between the Roma and non-Roma communities need to be broken down.

“It is very important that educated Roma meet together and that their stories can be told in the media so that people can see the positive contribution that many Roma can, and are making, to the wider society.”

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Sharing a common bond

Shabi Shafaq understands discrimination, diversity and prejudice but unlike many mentors working with the young Roma of Brno he is not one of them.

The 26-year-old solar energy engineer is from Afghanistan but has been living in the Czech Republic for eight years after fleeing Kabul.

"I didn't really know about Roma people when I lived in Afghanistan," said Shabi, who used to provide solar power to districts without electricity until radical elements against modernisation forced him to leave the country.

"My parents were always worried about my safety. They would call me 10 or 20 times a day to see where I was and what time I would be home. It was a very stressful situation for all the family so I had to leave."

However, arriving in the Czech Republic Shabi found his new home had its own challenges.

"I had a lot of problems when I first arrived. Strangers would demand to know why I was here and tell me to go home. They would discriminate against me because I was from Afghanistan, the colour of my skin or because I am a Muslim. They were suspicious of the way I look and talk. I had to learn to shrug it off and get on with life."

Shabi quickly realised much of the prejudice he experienced was similar to that shown to Roma.

"I couldn't understand how some people could treat others so differently when they are all part of the same nation. I saw what was happening to the Roma and I was shocked," says Shabi who started volunteering with IQ Roma Servis to help youngsters overcome discrimination.

"I am not Roma but I can understand a lot of things they have to go through and to be judged by people who don't know you."

"It doesn't matter where we come from, what religion we are, what language we speak or the colour of our skin we are all the same. There are only two kinds of people in the world - good and bad."

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A matter of progress

If Roman Krok has a watchword by which to live a happy life it is “progress”.

The 30-year-old account manager from Nachod, CZ has made a good life for himself in Holland.

It is a far cry from his childhood when, aged eight, his family left the Czech Republic for Holland.

Growing up in a succession of refugee camps he learned to rely on his own abilities and his self-confidence was boosted even further when he won an internship at the European Parliament.

While there, Roman delivered a speech which changed his life. His inspirational words went viral and lead to appearances on Czech television and in the national press, resulting in him being hailed as a potential future Roma leader.

"I realised then I wanted to be a positive role model for Roma people and inspire others to achieve success," says Roman, who speaks four languages.

Over the next couple of years Roman spent his free time visiting Roma settlements in Slovakia and volunteering to mentor young Roma by helping them with homework and after-school activities.

"I saw and learned a lot, not least that the biggest challenge facing Roma is that we have to change our views of the world and of ourselves," says Roman. "That's how we will sow the seeds of change.

"Many people say education is the key but that's only part of it. It doesn't matter how much you learn if you don't put that knowledge into action."

Roman believes that successful Roma have a duty to inspire others.

"I have a good job and a nice life. I could stay in the shadows and carry on making money and living in my new apartment. I don't need to go to the Roma ghettos and work with young people but I decided to stand up and be counted," he says.

"Those of us who have been successful have a responsibility to show other Roma they can be too."

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Writing wrongs

The pen is mightier than the sword when it comes to social change and few understand this better than Alica Sigmund Heráková.

As a journalist promoting better relations between the Roma and Czech communities she understands the importance of the media.

“I am half Roma and half Czech. Due to my family situation I only really found my Roma identity as an adult,” said Alica, who has lived in Brno since 2008 with her mother, who is a teacher.

“My parents divorced when I was 5. I have a brother and sister from her side. My father, who works in the field of medicine, has a second family and I have two brothers from his side.

“I had a nice childhood but my teenage years were spent searching for my true identity. I used to think a lot about why I looked different from the rest of my Czech friends. The topic of identity has remained a key part of my work as a journalist.”

Even as a child Alica knew she wanted to be a writer. “I’ve always been an extrovert person who liked to be heard and visible, so going into the media was a natural path for me,” says Alica, 32, a reporter working for the Roma show ‘O Roma Vakeren’ on Czech radio and a writer for the newspaper Romano hangos.

“I enjoy the chance to influence public perceptions about Roma through my work and the ability to the support Roma people by sharing their stories, experiences and knowledge with the wider community. I believe it is important for Roma to be heard,” says Alica, who has almost 10-years’ experience in the media, specialising in Roma issues.

Alica believes more can be done to create a better life for the Roma majority living in socially excluded localities.

“There have been some improvements. However, we still need to see the removal of segregated schools and more support for the employment of Roma people. Society needs to evolve and understand that inclusion is the best way forward for everyone.” says Alica.

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A sense of justice

As a child Marcel Costache had dreams of becoming a doctor but, as a Roma from a disadvantaged background, it was an unachievable goal.

Today the 52-year-old father of three from Craiova, Romania has turned his attention from fighting disease to fighting prejudice.

As a volunteer cultural mediator liaising between Roma communities and Italian institutions including schools, municipalities, health services, hospitals and courts - he has helped numerous families enrol their children in school, get access to medical treatment and build a better future

“I like being able to help people in need but that often means fighting prejudice and discrimination,” says Marcel who has battled injustice since his first days at primary school.

“I was a happy kid but once I started going to school I realised I was a little different from all other children. I was darker, I spoke an additional language and I was put on the last bench at the back of the class,” says Marcel who failed First Grade.

“Luckily I changed neighbourhood and school. The new teacher was more “humane”, and by the end of the school year I was first in my class, and I stayed at the top through secondary school and university,” says Marcel who went on to study social sciences and theology.

“Although I was good almost every colleague and teacher treated me differently. As time went by I saw clearly how much the Roma community was, and still is, discriminated against. I have tried to reduce and fight this discrimination but there is still so much left to do.”

Marcel says his dream is to see an end to discrimination against Roma through better education and job training opportunities. He attributes his sense of justice to the ideals instilled in him by his grandfather.

“My grandfather made utensils for the house that are today manufactured in factories using only a hammer, pincers and a small anvil he made. He taught me to play the accordion, raise and love horses, plant a tree, hammer a nail and gave me a sense of justice,” says Marcel.

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Adjusting to a new life

Aurel Dinu may not have the benefit of a vocational education but he does have something much more valuable when it comes to helping families from Eastern Europe settle in Germany – experience. The 25- year-old father of five from Romania knows what it’s like to settle in a new country with an unfamiliar language and customs.

“I help other people with housing agencies, to find a flat and I am supervising families from Eastern Europe,” said Aurel, who is currently working as an intern in the social sector.

“I know how difficult life can be in an unfamiliar environment. I help families deal with the authorities as well as translate and assist in the submission and filling in of forms or finding housing,” says Aurel who admits it’s a big challenge trying to look after his own family while helping others.

“I know I’m doing an important job and I do it because I want to be a good role model for other Roma.

Aurel who recognises the importance of a good education to a contented life says: “My dream was always to be able to go to school and get an education and I’ve done that. Now, I would like to continue my education and be there for my family so we can all enjoy a normal, human life.”

“We used to live in very precarious conditions but my family has been able to find an apartment in Berlin which has made life much better for us all. All I need now is to find a full-time job so I can work and support my family better.”

Aurel believes it is important for Roma to promote their willingness to integrate with wider society and contribute the community as a whole.

“It’s important to convince other Roma that it's never too late to change things and to achieve success,” says Aurel. “It is good never to give up and to take every opportunity that comes along. I am living proof that going to school, getting a good education and seeking out some vocational training is the best way to make dreams come true and a enjoy a better life.”

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Making a stand

In her young life, Ivana Nikolic has had to endure the displacement of war and anti-Roma prejudice yet she remains confident that better education can help fight discrimination.

Born to a Bosnian Muslim mother and an orthodox Serb father, her family was forced to flee the former Yugoslavia in 1991 when war broke out. “We arrived in Italy where we lived in a “refugee camp” for the following three years,” says Ivana. “It was like a ghetto but I was lucky because my family always placed a high value on education.

“My parents had the strength to overcome the difficulties, find good jobs and an apartment in the south of Turin. Thanks to my parents I acquired the values of humility, tolerance, respect and dedication.” says Ivana who is currently a student of the Philosophy and Educational Sciences and works as a dance teacher with youngsters aged 6 to 25.

“In Mirafiori South, where many young people are lost to family problems, unemployment, drug abuse and the Mafia, I staged “Help-activity” evening classes but was forced to close them due to threats and violent demonstrations against the Romani,” says Ivana

However, she didn’t give up and, with the help of the district, the Mirafiori South Foundation and ASAI, Ivana started an educational programme for young people of the district which is still running.

Through her involvement with the International Youth Network Ivana took part in a campaign to commemorate the persecution of the Romani people in the Holocaust.

“After this experience, together with a non-Romani girl, I put together an awareness campaign called “It must not happen again”. It culminated in a flash mob held in a public square in Turin dedicated to all the victims and gave rise to an informal group to promote public awareness about xenophobia and homophobia,” says Ivana who has been volunteering to work with youth groups since the age of 15. “Voluntary work has allowed me to help members of my ethnic minority and to be an example of change. But, the battle against discrimination cannot be fought individually. It must involve everyone.”

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Building a better future

Smaranda Iuonas is a living embodiment of the success of positive policies designed to help Roma people improve their lives.

The 40-year-old from Bistrita Nasaud county. in Transilvania, Romania studied Social Work at Babes Bolyai university in Cluj Napoca as part of a Roma group of students who benefited from affirmative action measures.

Now, as a result of her education opportunities she has been able to help others in Romania and Germany.

“After graduation I started to work as Roma expert within the County Office for Roma in Bistrita Nasaud County Prefecture and stayed for about 10 years,” says Smaranda whose involvement in the Roma movement started in 1997 as a volunteer working with disadvantaged communities as a member of the Romano Suno Association (Romani Dream).

“My work was directly connected to the situation of the Roma and involved communicating with the authorities, collecting information on local developments and the monitoring of strategy measures.”

But, in 2010 Smaranda, who is married with one son, moved to Germany and initially took a job in a hotel while she adjusted to her new life.

“There are a lot of structural barriers for the Roma in Germany,” says Smaranda.

“Roma who first arrive in Germany have to learn how to communicate in a different language, organise schooling for their children, find an apartment and get a job. It is a big challenge for them to re-organise their life while all the time having to fight prejudice, stereotypes and stigma.”

For more than a year now Smaranda has been working with an NGO called Forderverein Roma e.V. in Frankfurt which helps counsel Roma migrants from all countries of origin.

She is also involved in a project promoting Education for Roma adults between the ages of 25 and 65, which provides basic literacy, German language courses, mathematics and how to use a computer.

“We also offer help to Roma who need a first level orientation in registration of children up to 7 years old for kindergarten and school, and with access to e ducation, health services, housing, children allowances and much more,” says Samarinda.

”I love my job, I feel I am useful for Roma and a good example of a Roma women and migrant who has succeeded in Germany. Now, I am here to help others“.

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Spotlight on prejudice

If the world is a stage and each man must play a part then Toni Deragna is a star in the making.

The 23-year-old from Milan was born to perform, not out of a desire for personal attention but to educate his fellow countrymen through entertainment.

As a Roma Hrvati, a group of people deported from the former Yugoslavia to Italy during the Second World War, he grew up in a country he loves but which he feels does not want him.

“My great-grandfather and grandfather were partisans. They contributed to the liberation of this country from the Nazis. I want to be Roma but I also want to be Italian. I believe I deserve it,” says Toni who has endured years of prejudice, much of it generated by negative stereotypes of Roma in the media.

“I threw myself into theatre because I want to tell the true story of my people through art and not let media portray only negative things about my community,” says Toni.

As a youngster Toni couldn’t understand why he was treated differently, why some children would play with him and others wouldn’t. When his family moved to the Villaggio delle Rose he experienced discrimination throughout his primary and secondary schooling.

“Even the teachers were racists. The other kids saw how they treated me and did the same. I was scared of what could happen to me so I stopped studying,” says Toni who left school and became a Roma activist.

“I want people to understand that the Roma do not deserve to be seen as something to eliminate but as something that can benefit our society. The Roma have a lot to tell, to give, to teach. Europe without Roma wouldn’t be the one that we know.

“One day, when I have a family, I would like to take my son to the park and watch him play with other children and not have their parents take them away. I want him to live without the distress that accompanied my childhood.”

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Key change

Jazz singer Dotschy Reinhardt has struck the right note for improved integration between Roma and non-Roma communities by using music to break down barriers.

The 40-year-old musician from Ravensburg is Deputy Director of RomnoKher Berlin (NGO) and Founder of the National Council of Roma and Sinti Berlin Brandenburg e.V.

“I had a happy and sheltered childhood full of love, family and music, but, in school I was perceived as different from my classmates and had to overcome a number of hurdles to integrate and just feel reasonably accepted,” says Dotschy, who believes it is time change the tune of the debate.

“Sinti and Roma have suffered too long under injustice and we will not be victims any longer. We deserve to be treated as responsible and equal citizens without any limitations on our human rights,” says Dotschy who points out that while there are serious deficits on the political and social level in any country of the EU often it is Roma who bear the brunt of any unrest.

“The ‘Roma problem’ is often used to distract from the deficiencies and shortcomings in a country. Poverty and crime are often ethnicised by right-wing populists and the media.

“As with other countries there are things in Germany that should be changed. The Antiziganismuss must be outlawed as well as anti-Semitism so that Sinti and Roma can have greater acceptance in Germany.

“For too long Sinti and Roma have been treated as a marginal phenomenon of the Holocaust. We never had the opportunity to get educational training or to become academics so we were forced to take up trades we could learn independently such as basket weavers, blacksmith, instrument makers, horse traders and musicians.”

And, it is as a musician that Dotschy has found a way to make a difference.

“Most people know little or nothing at all about our life and culture so it’s my job to work against stubborn prejudices and overturn negative st ereotypes.” says Dotschy.

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Mending broken dreams

As a mechanic Vincenzo Spinelli is used to fixing things, but the damage he would most like to see repaired is that caused by negative stereotypes of Roma.

Born into a travelling family, Vincenzo finally settled in Bologna in 1989 when he was 13. This is where he still lives with his wife of 12 years, Mariola, and their three children Davide, 14, Meshua, 10, and Sheila, aged 5.

“My childhood was very tough. I couldn’t relate to non-Roma kids because we were always travelling. As soon as I made new friends at school we had to leave. It’s a part of my life I find difficult to recall because of all the discrimination towards us,” says Vincenzo, 40, who has seven brothers and sisters.

Wherever they went the family was frequently treated with suspicion and prejudice.

My biggest dream, as a boy, was to build a huge robot that could host my whole family and move us somewhere safe far, away from gagè people who hated us. I didn’t have the usual ambitions, being a lawyer or a doctor,” says Vincenzo.

It was that desire to create a mechanical solution to his problems that eventually led to Vincenzo becoming a mechanic.

“I always liked to work with engines, but I couldn’t find a proper job until very recently. I met an employer who trusted me enough to give me a job. I am very grateful, it wasn’t easy since people tried to talk him out of giving me the job,” he says.

Now, after 14 years of waiting and struggling he and his family finally have their own house, outside of the settlement.

“I have just achieved my dream of moving my family to a safe place. Now, I look forward to the day when my children get married, hopefully to partners outside our community because ethnic mixing is very important to me.

“I am happy I have a home, I found a job and I made new friends. I couldn’t have done all of these things if I was still living in the settlement.”

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Belief in God and education leads to success

Belief in God and a pride in her roots remain at the heart of Èva Àdàm’s drive to create a better life for those less fortunate.

The 25-year-old from Hungary works as a social worker at Frauentreff Olga as part of the drugs emergency team, Drogen Notdienst E.V, in Berlin.

“I deal with drug addicts and sex workers offering advice and support,” says Èva. “Most of the people I deal with are from Hungary and almost all of them have a Roma background.”

The daughter of a cleaning lady and a jazz musician father. As a result she is able to identify with many of the people she works with.

“The girls trust me very much, they tell a lot about their work and about their personal history. They immediately notice that I am Roma and that gives us an instant connection,” says Èva, who admits it is sometimes difficult not to get emotionally involved as she tries to offer her clients practical support and hope for a better life.

“When clients tell me stories from their childhood I feel very close to them and my empathy can be very strong because I recognise a lot of the experiences they have gone through,” says Èva, who was born in Budapest but grew up in Tata.

“Although my childhood was very beautiful, I grew up as an only child with my mom, it was difficult at times. It was not always easy to be the only Roma in school.”

Fortunately, Èva had a good teacher and role model who acted like a father figure.

“He encouraged me to be proud of my Roma background and focus on getting a good education. I learned to mix with lots of different people and I have made a lot of Roma and non -Roma friends who mean a lot to me,” says Èva who wants to see more young Roma get an opportunity to study and improve their lives.

“We all have “baggage" from our past but it doesn’t matter how we grew up but rather what we can achieve if we never give up our dreams.”

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Wounding words

Gabriella Stojanovic could have been a surgeon saving the lives of people regardless of their ethnic origins but, because of a few careless words, her dream was shattered.

The daughter of a Serbian father and Macedonian mother she was brought up in a hard-working family but has spent her life feeling discriminated against because of her Romani background.

“I used to hate being a Romani child and I especially hated living in a camp because it was looked down on at school,” says Gabriella, 24, from Venaria in Turin.

“People thought I was uncivilised, a wild person who didn’t know how to behave with other people. When I was 7 we were given public housing but our neighbours were not very kind to us. If anything happened, they would say: ‘it was the “Gypsies’”.

The constant discrimination and put-downs by people she didn’t even know took their toll on Gabriella’s self-confidence.

“When I was small, I used to say I wanted to become a surgeon to save lives. Then, a teacher shattered my dream by telling me there was no point in my going to school because I would end up like my fellow Roma and never become a doctor,” says Gabriella

Even after leaving school Gabriella found getting work a challenge. Despite being an Italian citizen she feels that as soon as potential employers see her name and the colour of her skin she is denied a chance to prove herself

However, thanks to an opportunity to work as a volunteer with the Christian Youth Workers’ Association Gabriella has a new found confidence.

“I liked the fact that I was welcomed so generously and was made to feel part of a family. They accepted me so easily, without giving any consideration to the fact that I am a Romani. Indeed, they didn’t even regard me as a Romani,” says Gabriella who has a new dream of one day starting her own business.

“Being discriminated against makes people doubt themselves. It is wrong. Everyone has the right to a job, a home and a normal life,” she says.

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