Sonya Harba

Country of Origin: Syria

State: California

My name is Sonya Harba. I’m a 30-year-old Syrian architect currently living in California, where I’m seeking asylum. I was born and raised in Daher Safra, a small coastal town in Syria with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. My immigration journey began four years ago and took me through four different countries, with frequent moves, before I was finally reunited with my family.

Along the way, I earned a master’s degree in Architectural Cultural Heritage in Germany, where I formed deep connections and found a strong sense of community. Recently, I’ve become actively involved in advocating for anti war causes and human rights, and I’ll soon be volunteering as a translator to support these efforts.

My advocacy for Syrians, Palestinians, and other communities facing genocide, discrimination, and abuse is deeply rooted in my personal experiences and a strong sense of empathy. I’m passionate about exploring different cultures, learning from diverse perspectives on politics, the environment, and art — and one of my favorite ways to connect with others is through food. Trying new cuisines is not only a joy, but a powerful way for me to experience and celebrate cultural diversity.