Presented by Soft Landing Missoula
The fourth annual Stories of Home event recently brought together the Missoula community to explore how we define “home”. For many refugees and immigrants who have settled in our city, this seemingly simple topic unveils a mix of emotions, memories, and hopes for the future.
On a rainy evening, the ZACC auditorium filled with anticipation as attendees gathered to listen to the stories of four remarkable individuals who now call Missoula home. Their inspiring narratives captivated the audience and offered a window into the refugee and immigrant experience.
The event showcased the diverse meanings of “home” through stunning photography by Helen Rolston Clemmer and heartfelt written stories by Meli Slater, Outreach and Communications Manager for Soft Landing Missoula. These multimedia presentations brought to life the journeys of Tanya, Malak, Ange, and Pathou, each with their unique perspective on what it means to create a home in a new land.
For those who couldn’t attend, we’re excited to share these powerful stories and images with you through the Stories of Home website . They highlight the resilience, hope, and determination that mark the refugee and immigrant experience in Missoula.
Home is more than just a physical space. For those who have experienced displacement, it can be a cherished memory of the place left behind, the comfort found in a loved one’s embrace, a dream of future stability, or the community that welcomes them.
While each story is unique, common threads emerge. There is the courage to start anew in an unfamiliar place, finding joy in small victories and cultural connections, and navigating the challenges of building a life in a different country.
These stories offer a window into the lives of Missoula’s newest residents. Tanya’s journey from Ukraine illustrates her struggle to leave Odessa amidst war. She reflects on her new life in Missoula, where she has rekindled her passion for music and found solace in community support while holding onto memories of home.
Malak’s story from Iraq showcases her joyful spirit as she embraces life in Missoula after years of waiting for resettlement. Her bond with family remains strong as she navigates her new environment, finding empowerment through education and community involvement.
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Ange’s experiences from Uganda emphasize the importance of peace and belonging. She has thrived academically despite language barriers and is now pursuing a nursing career to give back to her community. Her connection to her cultural roots remains vibrant as she shares traditional meals with her family.
Pathou’s journey from the Democratic Republic of Congo highlights his dedication to providing a better life for his children while advocating for refugee rights. His commitment to education and community service reflects his desire to contribute positively to his new home.
The hope of sharing these stories is to foster understanding within the wider Missoula community. It celebrates the diversity that enriches our city and reminds us all of our shared humanity, regardless of origin. Through these shared narratives, we gain a deeper understanding of what it means to create a home in a new land and how we can all contribute to making Missoula a place where everyone feels they belong. We encourage you to read each of the full stories on the Stories of Home website. These personal accounts offer deeper insights into the experiences of our community members. Additionally, don’t miss the front page article in the Missoulian about this year’s event, which provides a comprehensive overview of the impact and significance of Stories of Home in our community.Thank you to everyone who made this year’s Stories of Home a great success. We look forward to bringing you new stories next year.