Finding His Voice Through Film: How the DAFI Scholarship Helped a Young Syrian Director Pursue His Dream

At 22 years old, Mohamad Mamo, a Syrian student and recipient of the DAFI scholarship, is already making his mark in the world of filmmaking. Currently studying Radio, Television and Cinema at Gaziantep University in Türkiye, Mohamad is turning his experiences and aspirations into stories that aim to leave a lasting impact.

For Mohamad, the DAFI scholarship has been more than financial support, it has been a pathway to pursue higher education and focus on developing his creative voice.

He left Syria during the early years of the conflict, first seeking refuge in Lebanon before arriving in Türkiye in 2015. Since then, he has continued his education step by step, studying in Türkiye from middle school through university.

Alongside his studies, Mohamad also carries significant responsibilities at home. Living with his mother and younger sister, he has supported his family from a young age, balancing work with his academic ambitions. Today, he works as a freelance video editor, collaborating with clients across different countries.

Balancing work, studies, and family responsibilities has not always been easy. Yet, through determination and creativity, as well as the support of the DAFI scholarship, Mohamad continued to invest in his passion for film.

“When you work hard on something and your effort is recognized, it’s a very special feeling”

During his university studies, Mohamad created his first short film, “Yarım Elma” (Half an Apple), a project that would mark an important milestone in his journey as a filmmaker.

Working with limited resources, Mohamad took on multiple roles in the production, serving as director, actor, sound designer, and editor. The process required weeks of editing and careful planning, often relying on the support of classmates and friends.

The film tells the story of a young person with a disability who dreams of playing football and highlights the strong bond between a father and son. Through this narrative, Mohamad aimed to highlight how people often take everyday abilities and opportunities for granted.

Despite being his very first film, Yarım Elma received international recognition. The short film won first place at the “First Film Makers” competition in London, among more than a thousand submissions from emerging filmmakers. For Mohamad, the moment was unforgettable.

“When you work hard on something and your effort is recognized, it’s an incredible feeling,” Mohamad says. “It motivates you to keep creating.”

“The scholarship lifted a big weight from my shoulders”

For Mohamad, receiving the DAFI scholarship has been transformative. Supporting his family while studying meant carrying many responsibilities at once. The scholarship helped ease that pressure, allowing him to focus more fully on his education and creative ambitions. He first learned about the scholarship from a fellow student shortly after starting university and later applied himself.

“The scholarship lifted a big weight from my shoulders,” Mohamad explains. “When that financial pressure is reduced, you can concentrate on learning and improving your skills.”

The support also enabled him to invest in essential tools for his work, including a computer he now uses to edit videos and develop new film projects.

“My goal is to keep making films that leave an impact”

Now in his final year of university, Mohamad continues to build on his passion for cinema. He already has many story ideas written down and hopes to develop them into future film projects.

While balancing work and creative production remains challenging, he remains determined to continue telling stories that connect with audiences and inspire reflection.

“My goal is to keep making films that leave an impact,” he says. “Cinema can touch people’s lives.”

With determination, talent, and the support of the DAFI scholarship programme, Mohamad is turning his dreams into reality, one story at a time. Reflecting on his journey, Mohamad also has a message for other students benefiting from the DAFI programme: “If you believe in something, follow it with determination. When your intention is strong, you can achieve more than you imagine.”

DAFI programme has supported over 27,200 scholars to access higher education in their countries of asylum since 1992 through the support of German Government, Denmark Government, foundations and private sector donors.