Ahmed’s name has been changed and a stock image used to protect identity

Ahmed arrived in the Manchester in 2021, knowing very little about the city and without many connections. He enrolled in Mustard Tree’s Freedom Project, hoping to build a support network and pursue his career goals

Ahmed first came to Mustard Tree in April 2021, with a friend who was buying discounted furniture from the Community Shop. He had only very recently arrived in Manchester and knew very little about the city. He asked about volunteering as he was keen to make new connections and build a support network.

Shortly after, Ahmed enrolled on The Freedom Project, choosing the retail workstream. Ahmed was keen to find training and work experience that could put him on a pathway to a career in the digital sector.

Ahmed completed Mustard Tree’s Customer Confidence Course, giving him knowledge in customer service. Ahmed also enrolled in an accredited ESOL (English as a Second Language) Course with Mustard Tree partner, Caritas, at the Mustard Tree Ancoats Hub.

Joining Mustard Tree gave me the confidence to speak so anyone says Ahmed.

With the help of his Freedom Co-ordinator, Ahmed created a CV, taking him one step closer to his career goals.

Ahmed’s Freedom Co-ordinator supported an application for travel assistance for his wife, who had been living in Sudan, allowing them to reunite in Manchester.

Shortly after Ahmed’s wife’s arrival to the UK, they became homeless. Mustard Tree contacted the Council to secure emergency accommodation and sought legal advice through Greater Manchester Law Centre, to extend his wife’s stay.

Ahmed and his wife spent 3 months in temporary accommodation, all while continuing his training. With the help of Mustard Tree and Refugee Charity Boaz Trust, Ahmed and his wife moved into their first new home in Manchester, in April 2022.

Through the Freedom Project, Ahmed has gained the skills, confidence, and experience he needed to move onto the next steps in his life.

I gained communications skills, specifically with British people. I worked in retail and learned timekeeping skills and how to act in a formal environment

Ahmed graduated from his Freedom Placement in May 2022, after being accepted onto a Software Development course. Ahmed is continuing his education and plans to study as a software engineer. His long-term goal is to start his own tech business here in Manchester.

          I feel more confident now and my dreams have come true