It always makes me smile when I do something for someone, and they tell me that I’ve helped them to become better in some way. It tells me that I am on the right track and that I am a good role model for my son.
Right now I live in temporary accommodation. I used to live with my ex-partner, but after that ended, I couldn’t find a permanent place for my son and I to stay. Southwark Council moved us here almost three months ago. It’s very small for a two year old, he has no space to run around and play. If I was alone I could manage it, but it’s hard to see my son like this. I’m praying that we can move soon, and I’m working with Beam to support us to do this.
As well as helping me with accommodation, Beam are supporting me to get my first job here in the UK as a carer. In the Ivory Coast where I’m from, we call old people ‘libraries’ because they have so many stories. If you want to learn about life, this is the best person to talk to. You need to take care of the elderly as they have less of life to live. It is important that they are able to live these final years with peace of mind. I will definitely be good at providing this support. It is in my culture, in my blood. I know I need to treat old people with respect and with love.
In two years, I will be part-time in school and part-time in work. I'll be in my own accommodation, and my English will be perfect. I'll be able to teach other people some words in English even!