Barcelona, Spain – On his 18th birthday, Ilyas found himself alone on the streets, kicked out of the children’s centre he called home for two years. Determined to survive, he left Ceuta for mainland Spain in search of work to support his family back in Morocco. His journey was filled with hardships, from living on the streets to facing rejection in search of employment.

Despite the challenges, Ilyas never regretted leaving his hometown of Fnideq, a border town grappling with economic collapse. The closure of the border due to COVID-19 had devastated the once-thriving community, pushing many to seek opportunities abroad.

Now in Barcelona, Ilyas struggles to find shelter and support, navigating a system that leaves young migrants like him vulnerable and unsupported. As he battles the streets and his fears, back in Fnideq, his mother Aseya anxiously waits, praying for his safety and return.

The story of Ilyas is a poignant tale of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring hope for a better life, resonating with countless others facing similar challenges along the borders of Europe.