Family izz taking city by storm
A young Palestinian family who were in Direct Provision have been selected as Cork Persons of the Month.
Izzeddeen and his wife Eman Alkarajeh overcame the odds of moving to a new country, a new city, learning a new language and spending time in Direct Provision to build a very successful new life and business.
From Palestine, Izz moved to Saudi Arabia in 1999 to find work after he graduated from university with a degree in computer science. There he met his wife Eman, originally from Jordan, and in 2005 the couple applied to return to Palestine with their family. But because Eman did not have civilian status in Palestine, and as Izz’ contract in Saudi Arabia was coming to an end, this put enormous pressure on the couple to find somewhere where their family could live together.
It was then that Izz and Eman came to Ireland and applied for asylum, which took a year to be granted. They spent this year in Direct Provision centres in Dublin and Cork.
While still in Direct Provision, Izz completed a start-your-own-business course through SECAD, feeling that there was an appetite for Palestinian food in Cork.
Eman trained as an interior designer in Jordan, but has been cooking traditional food since childhood, which encouraged the couple to give their idea a try. On their first day at Mahon Point Farmers’ Market, Izz and Eman sold out their entire stock in two hours. Next came Izz Café, which serves quality, traditional Palestinian food.
Speaking about their success, Izz said: “Cork has proved itself a city of sanctuary, a place of welcome and safety for people of migrant origin like ourselves. Being in Direct Provision was challenging for our family, but we are happy to have met some amazing people who have made Izz Café possible.”
Eman added: “The people of Cork have accepted us with open arms and we are so thankful for their continued support.”
Organiser of the awards Manus O’Callaghan said: “Izz and Eman have an inspiring story of coming to Ireland as asylum seekers and making Cork their home. Their hard work and commitment to introducing the people of Cork to their traditional cuisine and culture is reflected in the popularity of Izz Café. We wish them continued success for the future.”