I'm passionate about lots of different causes but I'm particularly interested in women's rights. I've volunteered for a charity over the last few years working to support the campaign against FGM. Now that I can work, I'm ready to put all of my efforts into a paid role.
This new chapter marks the end of a very long journey for me. I arrived in this country as a student many years ago and couldn't go back to my own home country for my own safety. After applying for asylum, I faced a 12 year wait to gain my status and have only recently received the right to work. During this time I was housed temporarily by the government but was also forced to sleep rough and sofa surf for a significant period.
Being dependant on the help of charities for things like clothing and basics is so disempowering. Now that my status has been corrected, I am able to receive benefits which I'm grateful for. However, this is not a long term solution for me and I'm really keen to earn my own money as soon as I can.
Once I'm in work, I'd like to give back by donating to some of the charities that helped me through my journey. I believe in the power of kindness as I've experienced it at times when I've needed it the most. It'll feel great to be able to give it back in return.