Refugee camp visit ‘changes’ Shay Mitchell

Shay Mitchell —INSTAGRAM

Filipino-Canadian actress Shay Mitchell often posts videos and photos related to fitness and fashion on Instagram, especially since her schedule has freed up after “Pretty Little Liars” concluded last year. However, Mitchell recently made an announcement that she would be posting something far more “important.”

Eventually, a short black-and-white video of Mitchell going on a trip to a Syrian refugee camp in Jordan was uploaded.

“I’m fortunate enough to travel,” said the actress in a voiceover. “And the more I do, the more I realize how circumstantial life can be. Where you’re born is often a determining factor in so many people’s lives—and it shouldn’t be. Watching what’s going on in Syria has been devastating in so many levels.”

Mitchell, 31, shared a few photos of her visit and, in one post, said: “Amidst the unthinkable tragedy and terrifying circumstances, the kids I met all still managed to laugh and smile and continue to play as children.”

In another post, she expressed gratitude for the momentous experience: “Most times I find myself feeling very grateful and appreciative after I leave a country I don’t call home, but I knew when I arrived in Jordan that I was going to leave a very different person.”

Details of her visit can be seen on her YouTube channel. —OLIVER PULUMBARIT