Sanctuary Run By Migrant Women Helps Refugee Women In Athens

It was started in July 2016 by two women, Maria Ohilebo and Nadina Christopoulou, for refugee women arriving in Athens. Melissa, meaning ‘honey bee’ in Greek, is one of a few organizations in Athens helping refugee women learn skills like empowerment, coding, Greek language, and leadership. The doors to Melissa are always open, easing the transition for these women and giving them the resources they need to be successful in a new country. The Independent further describes some of the challenges these women face and how Melissa is helping them along the way.

“You see women coming in here with broken wings. They have faced so many challenges. But within the span of one or two weeks here you start to see new personalities emerging,” the organisation co-founder says.

One woman, who fled violence in Laos and arrived in Athens almost exactly one year ago says Melissa has been a lifeline.

To read this article in full, please visit: The Independent