Monika Delmos's documentary captures a year in the life of two teenage refugees, Joyce and Sallieu, who have left their own countries to make a new life in Ontario. Joyce, 17, left the Democratic Republic of Congo to avoid being forced into prostitution by her family. Sallieu, 16, had witnessed the murder of his mother as a young boy in wartorn Sierra Leone.
Delmos follows them as they bear the normal pressures of being a teenager while simultaneously undergoing the refugee application process. She shows how the guidance and support of a handful of people make a real difference in the day-to-day lives of these children.
Ages 14 to 17
Civics/Citizenship - Human Rights
Social Studies - Canadian Politics and Government
In a discussion with the class, ask students what they about the government granting residency status but then making these refugees pay $550 for their application. Do they think it's fair? Is it sending a message to the refugees that even though Canada has allowed them to stay, they cannot become a burden on the Canadian government and taxpayers? Explore more about refuges in Canada at this website.