The workshop is full of machines, tools, equipment, oils and tyres. The spare parts all over the place and the smell of oil are evidence of an old-established garage.

The brothers feel at home here. From the age of about twelve they began to work in the family's car repair shop.

– It was our uncle who introduced us into the world of cars. We were fascinated, we really wanted to get into it. It was like having a passion for something. We've always liked the work, and things went well for us', says Muhammed Zaatar.

– When the war came, it crushed all our plans for the future.

It became impossible for them to work in Syria.

– You have to support either the government or the opposition, you can't be neutral and stay on in Syria.

They brought their dreams with them. While waiting for their residence permits they thought about starting their own business in Sweden.

– We wanted to realise them in our new country. We didn't want to live on social handouts, we wanted to get ahead by our own efforts, the brothers say.

– During our practical training I learned that you need ability, attention to detail and a serious attitude to get a foot into the labour market. I worked hard to build up my customers' trust. I still do, says Amer.

– It isn't easy to find your place in the Swedish community, to learn the language and start your own business, says Muhammed.

They got help from Nyföretagarcentrum to set up on their own.

– They offered us free help there. We went there to find out about all the practical details, such as starting with a plan for the business, and then other questions such as how to open a bank account, says Muhammed.

Did you get any financial help?

– Unfortunately we were unable to get financial help from a bank, since we are new in Sweden. This is a problem for all newcomers who want to start their own business. Maybe you have a good idea and a profitable project, but no way of financing it. It's a big obstacle for us, says Muhammed.

– We borrowed money from our friends and from people who thought we could make a go of it. We started as a one-person business and now we have a limited company, he says.

The firm, Favoritbilverkstad AB, offers all types of service.

The brothers have kept on studying Swedish.

Why are you studying more Swedish?

– We want our language to be 100 per cent correct. It increases our customers' confidence in us. And of course it helps us understand our customers better and become part of the Swedish community, Amer says.

When they came to Sweden in 2015 they were given trainee places in different garages.

– It was a good way of getting out on to the labour market. When we were trying to find a job we got in touch with a firm and asked if we could get some training with them. In fact we started here in 2018 as trainees.

– Here in this very garage. After our practical training it became our own little car repair shop.

Do you have a lot of customers?

– Yes, both Swedish and incomers. We are particular about sticking to agreed times and we have the knowledge that is required. Satisfied customers are our best advertisement . They talk to one another about our work, and that gives us more customers, says Muhammed.

During the corona crisis there is a risk for their economy. But the brothers still believe the firm will survive.

– Of course, just like businesses all over the world we are feeling the effects of the corona crisis. But in spite of everything we're doing well. We have our customers, and we always try to maintain contact with them. If necessary we can drive out to where they live and pick up their car for repairs. We are more flexible during the crisis.