As a teenager I was always styling my friends' hair, painting their nails, and doing their make up. To be able to turn my passion into a job would be fantastic. I even had a place on a beauty course in college in the past. But without a stable place to stay I couldn't start my classes. Now I have a second chance to get my qualification and get started on a new track!
A few years ago, I was completing compulsory military service in my home country. I was asked to do things that went against my conscience, refused, and was thrown in jail. When I got out I knew it was not safe for me to remain. I came to London as a refugee. Though I lived with a family member at first, it was very difficult to find a job or my own flat. Eventually they asked me to leave and I became homeless. I spent time on the streets and months in a night shelter.
It was a big relief to be given a space in a hostel. I have my own room, and the time and energy to return to my studies. This course will help me move me towards a well paid job as a beauty therapist. My hope is to support myself and move out to my own place. I am really excited, ready to start, and ready to succeed!
For personal reasons Feven has chosen to use a pseudonym rather than her real name.