If you want to know the real heart and soul of Aberdeen, then ask Pouya Ahmadpouri.

His story of fleeing from repression and the very real threat of death in his native Kurdistan into the welcoming arms of the north-east will let you see the Granite City for what it truly is.

Ours is a tolerant, safe haven for those who need it most, no matter who they are, no matter where they are from.

Pouya’s story is eye-opening in many ways. He has seen asylum seeker hotels up close and it’s not pretty. His depiction of the overcrowded prison-like conditions is a far cry from the easy comfort some would have you believe.

But that is balanced by his clear love of Aberdeen and the people who have welcomed him here.

Pouya is........

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