Being a migrant has meant that I will never take the life that I have for granted. I am constantly grateful that I am able to live a life of safety and stability, to seize opportunities, to follow my dreams and this has sparked in me a strong desire to do what I can to give back to the country that has warmly welcomed me and my family.

My experience as a migrant has made me adaptable and resilient, having risen above the early challenges of migration including loneliness, the culture shock of living in a foreign country and missing family, friends and food. Overcoming these challenges and seeing the benefits of persistence and hard work as you navigate the unfamiliar space of a new country has left me with an acute sense of what is possible, why you should never take your opportunities for granted and the very real positive impact you can have on another person simply by reaching out to extend the hand of friendship.