I've always liked working on homes. I find joy in turning nothing into something and making money alongside that. Being an electrician gives me the opportunity to grow in different areas of the building and electrical trade. It's also something that I have some experience in.
I first became homeless in November 2018 when I was deported from America after living there for 45 years. I was flown in and dropped off at Heathrow airport with nowhere to go. My children, parents and friends all live in the States and I was alone here, with no one to really reach out to. I remember sleeping in the airport that day - being homeless and away from the people you love can be really tough.
Before I was deported, I was in prison for 10 years, serving a sentence for selling drugs. I was young and saw other people selling, and I thought I could make money that way. Since serving time, I have cut ties with all those people and I intend to do things the right way now.
Training as an electrician will provide me with the new start I need. I want to give my kids a better life than the one I had. No matter the distance, the obstacles, the adversities, family will always be there. I want to do good for their sakes so that I can see them again.
When I start my training, I'm really looking forward to learning the English codes for electrical standards and understanding how to work with electricity. I'm excited to get stuck into the trade, even if I'm starting at the bottom. I hope to be well on my way to independence!