‘My Journey from Sudan to Russia Has Been One of Resilience, Sacrifice, and Growth’

Abdalla Abdelgadir

Photo courtesy of Abdalla Abdelgadir

With the year almost over and the holidays just around the corner, the HSE News Service has been asking students about their reflections on 2024 and their hopes for the future. This latest instalment focuses on Abdalla Abdelgadir, a 31-year-old student in his first year of the Master’s in International Relations: European and Asian Studies at the Faculty of World Economy and International Affairs. In this interview, Abdalla talks about the huge adversity he faced in his journey to Russia from his home of Omdurman, Sudan, as well as how his passion for international cooperation extends beyond the classroom.

First Steps to HSE

I first heard about HSE University from Ahmed Ali, my colleague at the Norwegian Refugee Council, where we were working together. He had completed his Master’s degree in law at HSE and highly recommended it to me, emphasising its academic excellence and international environment. Encouraged by his advice, I decided to apply, and he generously shared the application details and resources with me.

The admission process was far from smooth. I had previously completed a Postgraduate Diploma in International Relations, but, at the time, had not yet received my certificate. My university was also unable to supply the required documents. After extensive back-and- forth communication with the International Admission Office, they advised me to apply with my Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering instead.

Keeping Hope Alive

Just when I thought the hardest part was over, my country was plunged into chaos. A severe civil war broke out in Khartoum, turning the capital into a battlefield. Completing my application became impossible as embassies closed, and roads became treacherous.

I vividly remember contacting the Admission Office and explaining my situation, attaching maps and screenshots to convey the dangers. Their understanding and support kept my hope alive

In the early days of the war, I believed the conflict would end in weeks. My father and I stayed behind as we sent the rest of my family to our hometown in western Sudan. But as the weeks turned to months, the situation worsened. My father and I were forced to make a heart-wrenching decision: leave our home, our possessions, and everything we had ever known. With just a backpack containing a few clothes and my most critical documents, we passed through multiple rebel checkpoints until we finally reached our hometown.

At that moment, I thought my dream of studying at HSE had been shattered. I began to settle into my new reality, volunteering as an English teacher for 6th-grade students at a local school. But fate had other plans. The Admission Office reached out and asked if I could apply for a visa at another Russian embassy outside Sudan. Ethiopia became the most viable option.

The journey to Addis Ababa was gruelling. To avoid clashes, I travelled on the back of cargo trucks, navigating long, indirect routes around the capital, across different states, and finally to Sudan’s eastern border. When I arrived at the Russian Embassy in Addis Ababa, I received my visa almost immediately.

The moment I received my visa overwhelmed me—I cried, remembering every struggle that had brought me to this point. At last, a new chapter awaited me

Finding One’s Feet

Arriving in Moscow, I began my Preparatory Year, despite being a month late. Those initial months were incredibly difficult. I suffered frequent nightmares and felt profound sadness, as though the weight of my journey still lingered on my shoulders. But I was not alone. My teachers, particularly Natalia Nikitskaya, treated us with warmth and care, like family. In my dormitory, Maria Antonovna, my social teacher, helped me find my footing and heal emotionally. Their kindness gave me the strength to move forward.

Over time, Moscow began to feel like home. I immersed myself in the culture, participating in numerous programmes and activities organised by Rosmolodezh and other federal organisations. I was fortunate to join the World Youth Festival 2024 in Sochi, the Territory of Meanings at Senezh, and events at universities like MSU, MGIMO, and MSLU. These experiences expanded my worldview, connected me with inspiring individuals, and deepened my appreciation for Russia's diversity.

Volunteering became another passion. I joined HSE’s International Admission Office as a volunteer and became part of the buddy programme, inspired by the incredible support I received from my own buddy, Tamara, from Germany.

Being a buddy to international students was my way of giving back and ensuring others felt as welcomed as I did

Life in Moscow

Academically, my master’s programme has fuelled my commitment to researching BRICS and global multipolarity. I dream of contributing to Sudan’s foreign policy, perhaps through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or even representing my country at the United Nations. Who knows what the future holds? What I do know is that HSE has given me the tools and the vision to dream bigger.

Beyond academics, I find solace in art, history, and exploration. Moscow’s cultural treasures, from its museums and parks to its breathtaking metro stations, are endlessly inspiring. Traveling across Russia is now one of my dreams—I hope to visit St Petersburg, Kazan, Vladivostok, the Caucasus, as well as Baikal, the Ural mountains, and others.

In my free time, I cherish moments with friends, follow global politics closely, and explore new corners of Moscow. Table tennis, walks, gym sessions, or a simple coffee chat—these small joys help me stay balanced.

I believe it would take a lifetime to uncover all the secrets this city has to offer.  

Life in the 1st Dorm has been another highlight. Though it’s not the most modern building, its central location and excellent facilities make it the perfect place to live and study. I’ve made friends from all over the world, a privilege that comes with its own emotional challenges—sometimes, when things are difficult for friends back home, it reminds me of how interconnected and fragile our world is.

I'm planning to celebrate the new year with my friends, we agreed to gather and cook together and enjoy our time.

A Second Family

Coming to Russia was not easy. My family and friends were initially hesitant, fearing for my safety based on stereotypes. Yet, my experience has been transformative.

Russia is not what many perceive it to be, and I have joined programmes aimed at breaking these misconceptions

As I look back, I miss my friends and the simple gatherings we once shared, but I am driven by the hope that I will meet them again. My journey, from Sudan to Russia, has been one of resilience, sacrifice, and growth. It taught me that no dream is out of reach if you are willing to persevere.

For me, HSE is not just a university—it is a second family. It has shaped my personality, my lifestyle, and my aspirations. I carry its name with pride and hope to represent it in higher positions and greater places in the future.

I close this chapter of my story with immense gratitude and optimism. Wherever life leads me, I will carry these lessons, friendships, and memories forward. My journey is proof that even in the most challenging times, hope can pave the way to new beginnings.