From Refugees to Messengers of Peace Heroes!

Scouts Omar and Saad, were forced to flee their war-torn country, Syria, almost two years ago. Today, they call Australia their home and are proud members of Scouts Australia.

While they are adapting well, thanks to the acceptance of the local community, they have not forgotten about their experience in Syria. The brothers have been actively promoting and practising the culture of peace at schools, workplaces and in the community since day one.

Last Saturday, they received the Messengers of Peace Hero award for creating positive change in the country by raising awareness of the situation in Syria and, preventing radicalisation and extremism. The award was presented to them by Victorian Governor, Linda Dessau, in the presence of fellow Scouts Australia members.

‘Our greatest tool against radicalisation is community and acceptance. Nothing gives someone a better sense of community than Scouting,’ said Omar. Both brothers hope to go back to Syria one day and contribute to its reconstruction.

The Messengers of Peace Hero Awards is a global recognition presented to Scouts to acknowledge exceptional efforts and contributions to the promotion of dialogue and peace values through service actions as well as to community development and relief efforts in times of need.

Watch the video below to find out more about their experience.