Crossing Borders: A Journey of Dreams and Hope

🌍Migration from West Africa to Europe is driven by the dream of a better life and more opportunities.

👫Many West African migrants face numerous challenges, including exploitation, trafficking, and dangerous border crossings.

🏠The decision to migrate often involves leaving behind family and familiar surroundings, leading to identity crises and emotional struggles.

💼Lack of economic opportunities and poverty in their home countries often push young people to seek employment and success in Europe.

❤️The journey is fueled by hope, resilience, and determination to achieve their dreams, no matter the obstacles they face.

Why do West African youth migrate to Europe?

—West African youth migrate to Europe in search of better economic opportunities, improved living conditions, and the chance to realize their dreams.

What challenges do migrants from West Africa face?

—Migrants from West Africa face challenges such as exploitation, human trafficking, and dangerous border crossings. They also experience identity crises and emotional struggles as they leave behind their families and familiar surroundings.

Are there success stories of migrants who achieve their dreams?

—Yes, there are success stories of migrants who have overcome the challenges and achieved their dreams in Europe. However, these success stories are often accompanied by many sacrifices and hardships.

What drives the hope and determination of migrants?

—The hope for a better life, improved economic opportunities, and the chance to contribute to society drives the determination and resilience of migrants on their journey to Europe.

How can society support young people in their home countries?

—Society can support young people in their home countries by creating more economic opportunities, improving living conditions, and providing better access to education and training.

00:33Filmmaker Ike Nnaebue embarks on a journey to retrace his own coming-of-age and understand the challenges and hopes of modern West African youth migrating to Europe.

05:09The journey starts with a group of young friends leaving Lagos, Nigeria, with dreams of crossing West Africa and reaching Europe for better opportunities.

17:08The decision to migrate often involves leaving behind family and familiar surroundings, leading to identity crises and emotional struggles.

33:59Stories and testimonies abound about the geography, logistics, and hardships of the journey from West Africa to Europe.

46:07Bamako, the capital of Mali, becomes a significant point on the journey, with migrants often facing challenges and contemplating their next steps.

57:36Laura and Sandra, two young women on the road, represent the determination and resilience of many migrants, as they face the hardships of street begging while waiting for an opportunity to cross the Mediterranean.

01:06:38The journey continues, with Ike reflecting on his own experiences and the reasons why people leave their home countries in search of better lives.

01:20:10The dream of migration is often driven by a lack of opportunities and a desire for a better future, raising questions about how societies can create opportunities for young people to realize their dreams in their home countries.