“We Were Here”: UNHCR and YouTube highlight the shared passions that bring us together

“We Were Here” is an original documentary series from YouTube and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, that seeks to challenge stereotypes and perceptions about refugees by focusing on what unites us rather than sets us apart - our shared passions.

The three short films in the series feature refugees and YouTube creators coming together over their common interests. This includes the inspiring stories of inventors Mohammad and Simone Giertz, musicians Fo Sho and Jax Jones and growers Bemeriki and Gaz Oakley. 

Jax x Fo Sho

Meet Fo Sho, the queens of Ukrainian hip-hop. Now displaced by war, they exchange stories and jam with musician Jax Jones. Their story is a beautiful example of how music transcends borders.

Gaz x Bemeriki

Meet Bemeriki, a sustainable food grower and refugee from the Democratic Republic of Congo, who finds common ground with grower and chef Gaz Oakley. The two represent what amazing things can grow when cultures meet.

Simone x Mohammad

Meet Mohammad, a Syrian toy maker currently living in the Azraq refugee camp in Jordan, who crosses paths with fellow inventor Simone Giertz. Their story shows how a shared passion can unite two people from entirely different walks of life.

To view any of the videos in the “We Were Here” series and see how they’re challenging perceptions and inspiring change, visit https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbpi6ZahtOH7c6nDA9YG3QcyRGbZ4xDFn