Mawra Hocane highlights refugee families’ struggles during UNHCR visit

Actor shares stories of children leaving schools and friends behind during a visit to a repatriation centre with UNHCR

Actor Mawra Hocane highlighted the emotional challenges faced by refugee families preparing to return home, sharing reflections from her visit to a repatriation centre in an Instagram collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

In the video, Hocane acknowledged the efforts of countries that have welcomed people fleeing conflict, highlighting the importance of providing them with shelter, education, healthcare and a sense of belonging.

“What very few countries have been able to do. We've opened our doors, our schools, hospitals, our neighbourhood, to millions of people fleeing the war,” she said.

Alongside the video, Hocane shared a heartfelt caption reflecting on her visit to the repatriation centre, where she met families and their children as they prepared for their journey home.

“No matter what we do for them… it’ll never be enough… but it’s always better to do something… however little it may be,” she wrote.

Describing the encounters, the actress noted that adults were concerned about their future, while children were sad to leave their schools and friends behind, highlighting how displacement affects family members differently.

 

 

 

 

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“During my visit to the Repatriation Centre, I had the opportunity to meet families and their children. I listened to their stories as they prepared for their journey home. Where adults were worried about their future, children were sad to leave their schools and friends behind,” she said.

Hocane also acknowledged UNHCR’s role in assisting families who have chosen to return to their home countries, emphasising the importance of ensuring that the process is safe and dignified.

“UNHCR is there to support families who have chosen to return by helping to make the process safe and dignified,” she added.

Through her message, Hocane drew attention to the human stories behind displacement, highlighting the uncertainty and difficult adjustments that can accompany a return home. While adults may be focused on rebuilding their lives and securing their families’ futures, children may struggle with leaving behind familiar surroundings, friendships and education.

Her post also stressed that even small acts of support can make a difference, encouraging greater awareness of the challenges faced by people affected by conflict and displacement.

Hocane recently welcomed a baby boy with her husband, Ameer Gillani, adding a personal dimension to her message about the importance of ensuring children receive care and support.