Karoo Mahmoud Giyahi, an Iranian kick-boxer, left his country several months ago to attend a competition in Turkey. But, his life path has brought him to Sarajevo, where he wants to stay and make his dreams come true.

After arriving in Turkey and finishing the competition, Giyahi decided he would not go back to his homeland. Instead, he bought a ticket to Serbia where he stayed for two months and then continued to Sarajevo.

“I didn't have a chance for progress in Iran, for my further advancement. I have been in sports since I was seven, I tried to find a better chance for myself, which is why I came here,” said the Iranian, who came to Bosnia amidst the influx of Asian and African migrants, who took a route through the country in hope they would eventually reach their final destinations in European Union countries.

But, as Croatia keeps its borders closed for illegal migrants, they are stranded in Bosnia, mostly in the parts bordering the EU, waiting for their chance to continue the journey.

Unlike them, Giyahi wants to stay. He is sure he can make his dreams come true in Bosnia.

“If you give someone an opportunity in a country to develop in something they want, then I am sure it is possible to achieve that. I am convinced that this is the place where I can find a chance to develop. I am happy for meeting nice people, especially the coach I work with. I hope I can win medals for Bosnia and Herzegovina,” he said, speaking for N1's Novi dan programme.

Giyahi is a member of a local kickboxing club. He believes it was destiny. As he was wandering the streets of Sarajevo, a random person helped him to reach his current coach
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“He contacted Haris Biber, said he met a guy who would like to train here and he accepted it. That's how it all started,” recalled Giyahi.

He already competed as a Bosnian representative and is sure about making a success.

“We're spending days in the gym, training. I asked myself what am I doing here. I have to think every second about what's my goal, I think I can do better, that I can win a good place for Bosnia if I get support.”

The Iranian believes that Bosnia is a peaceful country and that locals are nice with their guests.