Before joining Mustard Tree, I didn’t have any work experience in the UK. I also had limited English. Starting on the Freedom Project was an opportunity to gain work experience and training which was really important for me.

Through being on the project I became more confident in myself and my ability to relate to others in this culture. I have been able to overcome the language and cultural barriers that exist when you move to a new country. The experience I have gained from the programme has been a big plus.

While on the programme I completed the Customer Service course and took part in the weekly ESOL (English) lessons. I feel that I am now able to help others. For example, I have helped one of my friends to move house, which I would have had the confidence to do before joining the project.

I am now studying 4 days per week at an adult education college. I am doing four subjects which include maths, English, and Social Care. I am really enjoying the opportunity to study hard and build my skills further. I am meeting new people and really enjoying it, although there is a lot of homework from 4 subjects! It’s also been another great chance to learn more about life and culture in the UK, which I’m finding really helpful.

One thing that has changed from when I first joined the Freedom Project is now have a lot less free time in my week! Life is busy with college, looking after my son, cooking at home and completing my homework! However, I much prefer to be busy, which I see as a good thing.

I would love to find a job in the future where I can help others. I have a passion for helping people who have had challenges in their lives, such as alcohol or drug addiction, or those who do not have belief in themselves. If I can help others to be happy, then I feel happy. In the same way that I have received help through Mustard Tree, I would like to be able to pass it on.