THE UNBULGARIANS: MUSA NIASI, GAMBIA

In Bulgaria, he is having an internship in front-end web development with the Magic Solutions company. He is applying for asylum.

Have you experienced special treatment in Bulgaria because you are a foreigner?

Actually, no. I have heard of people having trouble, but I always meet nice people and have never experienced negative thoughts or attitude towards me.

Has Bulgaria surprised you?

I wan't surprised by Bulgaria. I came because I was looking for a democratic, stable society. In the beginning, the conditions in the refugee camp were terrible, but at some point things started improving. In Bulgaria I saw snow for the first time in my life, but winter is not a problem for me, I like it. The food is nice, I am in love with tripe soup.

Do you have Bulgarian friends?

Yeah, almost all of my friends are Bulgarians.

Do you celebrate any Bulgarian holidays?

Not really, but last spring I wore the Martenitsa. Friends and colleagues give me a lot of these things.

Describe Bulgaria in three words.

I really like the nature, it's awesome. I've been to some mountains, like the Rila. The people are nice to me. And my colleagues, and my bosses – they are the best.

Do you plan to stay in Bulgaria?

Yes, I do. I like it, I feel okay here.

Is there a typical Bulgarian character trait?

I don't know. People are nice.

Do you feel a part of Bulgaria?

Yes, especially now that I have work and made some friends, I feel at home.

The UnBulgarians project is conducted by the Free Speech International Foundation and supported by the NGO Programme in Bulgaria under the Financial Mechanism of the European Economic Area 2009-2014