Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
On World Refugee Day, members of the World Athletics Athlete Refugee Team (ART) reflected on what safety means to them after fleeing conflict and violence in their home countries. Susan Nakiru, who fled South Sudan, described safety as being able to sleep without fear of gunshots and for her siblings to attend school and return unharmed. Aron Gebremariam, originally from Eritrea, said safety involves living a calm life without fear, harm, or bad news.
Both athletes recounted traumatic experiences during displacement, including suffering that is not always visible—such as lost childhoods, hunger, sickness, and the loss of identity. Nakiru, now living in Kenya, shared that while her body is physically safe, her mind still experiences trauma from war. Gebremariam noted that starting over in the United Kingdom brought new challenges, including isolation and cultural adaptation, but he now feels safe and is focused on working toward his dreams.
Other ART members, such as Solomon Ayela Okeny, who also fled South Sudan, recounted hardships faced during their journeys, including physical injuries and fears for separated family members. Their stories highlight the enduring impact of conflict and the resilience required to rebuild their lives.