My name is Aws Thamir. I’m 16 years old. After the Islamic State (IS) group took over Mosul, I left school. Now, I sell mobile accessories on the sidewalk of Mosul’s Cultural Center Street so that I could assist my family.
Before the Islamic State group overran Mosul, my father was a member of the security forces, however he was discharged from service after June 2014 along with about 13 thousand members of the security forces who remained in the city after the city was controlled by the militants. Since then he is jobless.
I have to work so that we can live. My father is unable to work because he is old. I have 4 brothers who need support.
My dream is to go back to school but now my work here has the priority. I studied until the 6th grade; therefore I still cannot read and write perfectly.
I wish one day my dad returns to his to his old job because that will makes my return to school much easier.
I wish to become an officer in the future and protect my country.
