I am a 29-year-old Kenyan national currentlyliving in the UK. I was raised by my grandmother and uncle after losing my mother in 2003, an experience that shaped my resilience and determination. I came to the UK in 2022. My asylum journey was a challenging period that strengthened my independence and courage. Through support from organisations such as Breaking Barriers, I have gained confidence, developed new skills and continued building a better future for myself.
I have faced many challenges on my journey. I experienced rejection when applying for NHS jobs more than fifteen times, even attending interviews. This affected my confidence and made me feel like I didn’tdeserve good things. I also faced rejection from my best friend, who asked me to leave her home when I needed support most.
Since 2024, I have been travelling to Croydon College to study a Level 2 course after being rejected by two other colleges, because they don’t accept asylum seekers. Not having a permanent, full-timejob isdifficult. Despite all these challenges, I keep pushing forward, staying positive and working hard to build a better future for myself.
I have faced many challenges on my journey. I experienced rejection when applying for NHS jobs more than fifteen times, even attending interviews. This affected my confidence and made me feel like I didn't deserve good things.
Ruby
Working in the Care Sector
I’m currently working as a Care Support Worker with an agency. My role involves supporting individuals to live as independently as possible, including care, dressing, and daily activities. I also help promote their well-being, dignity and choice in their day-to-day lives.
I carry out key assessments, administering medication safely and accompanying service users to community centres and other activities. I really enjoy building positive relationships with people I support and seeing them achieve their goals, no matter how small. It’s rewarding to know that my work helps improve their confidence and quality of life.
I have gained patience and learned to stay calm in any situation. I was a very emotional person. I no longer react under emotions; I began my self-awareness journey through documenting. It has also given me a deeper understanding of mental health and the reality of life, showing me that well-being is truly a state of mind.
Meaningful employment means making a real difference. Helping people live independently and feel valued gives me purpose and makes my work rewarding.
Gaining support from Breaking Barriers
No one chooses refugee camps. To be called a refugee is the opposite of an insult. It’s a badge of strength and victory.
Ruby
Through the help of Breaking Barriers, I have developed key skills such as resilience, problem-solving, communication, empathy, respect and self-awareness. I also had the opportunity to join the NHS with Barts Hospital, where I completed an NCFE Cache Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Mental Health First Aid and Mental Health Advocacy in the Workplace. Additionally, I have attended various events and workshops with Breaking Barriers, which have helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Breaking Barriers has helped me become more independent and confident, giving me the skills and support to achieve my goals and feel more included.
My goal is to become a Registered Adult Nurse and gain my driving licence by February to increase my independence and flexibility.
My advice to other refugees starting their journey in the UK is to be patient with yourself and don’t be afraid to ask for help. It can be hard at first, and things may feel overwhelming, but take it one step at a time. Focus on your goals, keep trying and believe that you can build a better lifehere.
No one chooses refugee camps.
To be called a refugee is the opposite of an insult. It’s a badge of strength and victory.
Believe in yourself. Life gets better and people who what they are doing. Dress up, show up.
