Fleeing war, Syrian refugees seek new life in Brazil

"I am not a Muslim, I am a communist," says Victorios Bayan, a 39-year-old journalist and an "opponent of the government of Bashar al-Assad since before the revolution."

Bayan says he reached Sao Paulo two months ago and took language classes at the mosque.

Lessons stop for prayers and Bayan takes the opportunity to have a quick smoke.

"I was detained, beaten and maltreated," he explains, gesturing with his cigarette.

"When will I be able to return? Will there be a solution?"