Three years ago, I was working as a doctor in my home country. I was training to become a specialist in orthopaedics. This is everything to do with bones, joints and muscles. There is a big need for this where I am from. Many people are suffering from accidents. A lack of training in this area means they can't always get good treatment. So it was important work and I loved doing it. My dream (which I still have) was to establish a centre to help amputees.
However conflict in my area meant that it became unsafe for me. I was arrested by the government and accused of treating people from the militia. I came to the UK as a refugee. This meant leaving behind my family and my wife.
Last December, I was granted asylum and received my residence card. I was safe from violence but I couldn't work in my profession and was left homeless. Thankfully, with the support of the West London Mission, I now have somewhere to stay. I can start moving forward.
I couldn't finish my specialist training when I should have. I want to get back there. After I finish these exams, everything will change. I can get back to practicing medicine. This will let me make money, settle in the community here, and be reunited with my wife. Here in the UK, I feel free - like I can do anything.
For personal reasons Fadega has chosen to use a pseudonym rather than his real name.