Digital Storytelling

Some Digital Storytelling created for Mamy’s project may be seen here.

The whole set of videos may be seen on the Mamy’s Project YouTube account.

Belgium

Ana, a daughter, wife, and now mother, has overcome very difficult challenges in her life, but she has never given up. She has always done her best for her children. Her greatest wish is for her children to have a better life than hers, filled with opportunities and happiness. Her love and dedication to her children are the driving forces behind her unwavering determination, guided by the hope for a brighter future for them.

However, growing up in a large family, she struggled to find balance. Believing that marriage would be a way to escape her many responsibilities, she embraced it without fully understanding what awaited her. Years went by, and although her marriage allowed her to build a beautiful family, Steliana realized that something was still missing from her life. Today, with great determination, she has decided to return to school. She aims to learn, grow, and become not only an accomplished woman but also an inspiring mother and a true role model for her community. Her journey is a shining example that it is never too late to follow your dreams, push past your limits, and achieve your goals.

Dalia, a young Romani girl full of ambition, dreams of a future where she can help others by becoming a doctor. For as long as she can remember, she has nurtured this desire to study, grow, and build a different life. But one day, her parents tell her that it’s time for her to get married. In their culture and community, marriage is a deeply rooted tradition, a significant milestone in life. Yet, deep down, Dalia knows that this marriage would bring an end to her dreams of education and a brighter future. A heartbreaking dilemma between her aspirations and her family’s expectations.

Medalia, 16 years old and of Romani origin, grows up in a culture where early marriages are considered normal. Although she respects traditions, her dream is to become a medical assistant. At 14, her parents announce that it’s time for her to prepare for marriage. Fear sets in; she knows that refusing an arranged marriage could disappoint her parents, but she dreams of helping people and continuing her studies.

Slovenia

They cherish their time together, creating lasting memories through vacations and shared experiences. Venesa admires her mother, who is not only a loving support but also an exceptional cook, especially during celebrations of their Roma culture. Their family traditions, such as wearing long skirts and celebrating their heritage through music and dance, are deeply cherished. For Venesa, being with her family brings a sense of completeness and happiness. She describes her family as a place of love, joy, and beautiful traditions.

Mateja, a 14-year-old student, is passionate about art, where she expresses her creativity through drawing and painting. With the support of her teacher, Mrs. Piletič, and extra help from DRPDNM, she is confident and motivated to reach her academic goals. Determined to pursue her dream of attending a vocational school, she believes every step in school brings her closer to a bright future!

Lina, a 14-year-old student, finds her greatest happiness in spending time with friends and moments with her beloved niece. She believes that happiness is hidden in small things like music, nature, and conversations. With her smile and positivity, she inspires those around her!

She had always dreamed of having a daughter first and a son second. When her daughter was born, her life changed forever, and she felt an overwhelming love. Later, when she found out she was pregnant again with a son, she was equally excited and prepared for the challenges of raising two children. Katie reflects on how becoming a mother has reshaped her life and the deep sense of fulfillment it brings. Despite the challenges of feeding her children, she is content with her life and looks forward to the future as a mother of two.

Portugal

Vanessa had a tough childhood and didn’t have the chance to study. Now, as a mother, her biggest wish is to allow her daughter to get a good education and grow personally and professionally. Vanessa strongly believes that education is the foundation for living a full life and building a fair and balanced society.

Telma tells us about Roma weddings, explaining that women always have the right to refuse marriage and that they marry whomever they choose. She shares that, in the past, weddings lasted three days, but nowadays, they are celebrated for only two or even just one day. She admits that she cannot read but wishes for her daughter to have that opportunity. She also reveals her dream of becoming a firefighter. She states that she supports her children in everything and emphasizes the importance of education, saying that a person who cannot read or write is nothing in life.

Cátia is 38 years old and is very good at housework. When she was young, she wanted to learn how to read and write. Today, she wants her children to learn, although she believes that the education of girls is different from that of boys. She likes that her daughter studies, but she believes that when she turns 18, she should leave school. However, she doesn’t mind that her son continues studying. In Gypsy tradition, women are more protected.

Maria da Conceição never attended school, as education was not mandatory in her time. Her parents had no permanent home and moved from place to place, living only with a wagon and a tent. Maria never learned to read or write, but as an adult, she had the opportunity to learn to read a little. Her only dream was to have a family.