Iranian family finds new life and work in Heerhugowaard after fleeing religious persecution
Narina and Mansour, who fled Iran due to religious persecution, have built a new life in Heerhugowaard. They now work as a hairdresser and bicycle mechanic, embrace Dutch culture, and use local support like the DijkenWaardPas to thrive in their community.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Family | Narina, Mansour, and daughter Mathilda |
| Origin | Iran |
| Reason for Fleeing | Religious persecution; conversion from Islam forbidden |
| Current Residence | Heerhugowaard, Noord-Holland, Netherlands |
| Narina’s Profession | Hairdresser at Marlitha salon |
| Mansour’s Profession | Bicycle mechanic in Alkmaar |
| Language Support | Community center De Ezel and Language House Heerhugowaard |
| Local Support | DijkenWaardPas for school fees, dance/swimming lessons, and thrift shopping |
| Advice for Newcomers | Learn Dutch quickly and engage with the community |
The municipality of Dijk en Waard, which issued this article, plays a key role in integrating refugees and newcomers by providing language programs, community centers, and financial support tools like the DijkenWaardPas. Their efforts aim to help families like Narina’s settle and contribute to local society.
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From uncertainty in Iran to a new beginning in Heerhugowaard
Narina lives in Heerhugowaard with her husband Mansour and their little daughter Mathilda. Just eight years ago, they fled to the Netherlands. She explains: “In Iran, Islam is the dominant religion. We could no longer identify with it and wanted to convert. That was not allowed.”
‘Don’t be afraid—just participate!’
In Iran, changing one’s religion if born Muslim is forbidden. People risk social exclusion or even long prison sentences. The couple therefore decided to flee the country. They were first taken in at Ter Apel. After staying in six or seven reception centers, they have now found a home in Heerhugowaard, where they are very happy.
Language lessons at De Ezel
“I don’t speak the language very well yet, sorry!” Narina says before the interview begins. But nothing could be further from the truth—she actually speaks it remarkably well. “Thanks to the language lessons at community center De Ezel!” Narina says enthusiastically. And through the Language House Heerhugowaard, located in the library on Parelhof.
Hairdresser
In Iran, she worked as a professional hairdresser. In the Netherlands, she wanted to do the same. So when she saw a job opening at Marlitha hair salon on Middenweg, she decided to apply. “I was honest: I didn’t speak Dutch very well yet, but I really wanted a chance. And I’m good at cutting hair,” she laughs.
She was invited for an interview and got to do a trial cut. Marlitha was enthusiastic, and now Narina works with great pleasure at the salon. There, as hairdressers do, she chats a lot with Dutch customers, which helps her learn the language even better.
Bicycle mechanic
Her husband Mansour has also found work, as a bicycle mechanic in Alkmaar. In Iran, he worked at a bank, crunching numbers all day. Now he works with his hands, and he enjoys it, Mansour says. “I’m also learning Dutch by talking a lot with customers in the shop.”
DijkenWaardPas
The family makes good use of the DijkenWaardPas, especially to pay for things for Mathilda. “Mathilda is our princess,” Narina says with a proud glance at her daughter. They use the pass for dance lessons, swimming lessons, and school fees. On the wall hangs a collection of tiles with typically Dutch sayings. She bought these at a thrift store, where the DijkenWaardPas is also valid. For their family, the pass is ideal for doing fun things, but also for covering practical expenses.
‘Learn Dutch as quickly as possible!’
What does she advise other newcomers? “Learn the language as quickly as possible!” she exclaims. “Go to the library—there are many people like us there, and that creates a bond. It’s fun, and you get to know Dutch people who can help you further. With other questions too.”
Participating
Despite the turbulent times they and their family have been through, they are grateful and cheerful. “I just want to be myself,” Narina says, explaining her positive attitude. In those words lies the essence of her story: fleeing from her homeland where she no longer felt safe. Then the reception in various reception centers, which she has no negative memories of because: ‘You have to make the most of it yourself.’ Narina is forgiving about that time and prefers to talk about the people who did help—volunteers who listened and patiently gave language lessons. And about classmates who have since become friends. “In language class, you don’t just learn words,” she says. “You get to know people, you learn to understand the new culture and customs of your new homeland. Don’t be afraid—just participate!”