Migration Experience Report: Mohsin’s Journey to Siena
This report summarizes the lived experience of Mohsin, a 45-year-old man from Pakistan who arrived in Italy in September 2022. His narrative reflects the complex transition he experienced, moving from a comfortable life in Pakistan and the United States to a challenging five-year migration journey. Ultimately, he found a sense of purpose and community in Siena.
Personal Background and Identity
Mohsin describes himself as a man defined by his commitment to others, a trait he considers to be part of his family’s legacy. Following the death of his father, Mohsin took on a paternal role, ensuring that his siblings were educated and supported. Prior to his journey to Europe, he led his life in Pakistan as the owner of a construction business and lived in Texas, USA for nine years. His identity is deeply rooted in a history of responsibility and resilience, though he admits that describing his own character often leaves him “speechless.”
The Journey to Italy (2017–2022)
Mohsin’s journey was a five-year odyssey that began in 2017. He left Pakistan out of necessity following a tragic political and religious crisis. In 2017, his cousin Mashal Khan was killed at a university in Mardan due to a false blasphemy case — an incident that gained BBC coverage and made it dangerous for Mohsin to remain in his home village while supporting the victim’s family.
His journey was marked by profound loss; he travelled with a group of 15 people from Turkey to Europe, during which he lost a nephew. He describes the experience as “very hard,” a stark contrast to his previous stable life.
Arrival and Integration in Siena
Upon arriving in Italy, Mohsin had no specific expectations or predetermined destination. His first days were defined by a chance encounter in a parking lot, where he was given Don Domenico’s contact details. He provided Mohsin with housing and initial support in San Rocco.
Mohsin quickly distinguished himself through his service. While waiting for asylum at the Questura with 250 other people, he started volunteering as a mediator, using his language skills (Pashto, Punjabi, Urdu, and English) to help officials communicate with the other refugees. This proactive approach facilitated his integration and helped him secure his permesso provvisorio (provisional permit).
Employment and Social Life
Integration has not been without its hardships. Mohsin spent 18 months working physically demanding night shifts in Ville di Corsano. He currently works at the Centro di Accoglienza San Benedetto.
He credits his survival and progress to the local Italian community, noting that the journey would have been “impossible” without them. He mentions individuals such as Lavinia, as well as organizations like AUSER and CPIA, as being instrumental in helping him learn the language and providing him with social support. Despite the presence of other migrants, Mohsin emphasises the importance of building relationships with locals for true integration.
Challenges, Learning, and Personal Change
Mohsin’s main challenges today are the language barrier and the emotional toll of being separated from his wife and children. He reflects on the “war with yourself” that can last for years during the resettlement process.
However, his journey has fostered his internal strength. He describes “starting life from zero” and discovering who truly stands by you in difficult times. Compared to the day he left Pakistan, he feels more resilient and has a stronger faith. He is self-driven and motivated, bolstered by the constant support of his mother.
Future Aspirations and Message
Mohsin’s vision for the future centres on reunification and restoration. He hopes to:
- Establish his own business in Italy.
- Bring his 64-year-old mother and his daughter to join him.
His message to others is: “Life is a struggle: you have to be very strong and fight back, never give up. Do your best.”
Insight About Mashal Khan’s murder:
