Amir, Expert by Experience consultant

“When I joined in December 2021 after a friend told me about the Young Leaders, it marked a pivotal moment in my life.”

My name is Amir, and my journey to the UK was driven by my desire to forge a new life. I was forced to leave behind my home country, Afghanistan, my family, and childhood memories in August 2021. But I have now found a new family in the Safe Passage Young Leaders.

When I joined in December 2021 after a friend told me about the Young Leaders, it marked a pivotal moment in my life. As Young Leaders, we are campaigning for change, influencing government decisions, helping within Safe Passage with things like fundraising events or graduation ceremonies for other young people, or conducting job interviews for new staff. We even gave speeches at festivals, Parliamentary events, and exhibitions! Ultimately, we work to defend children and young refugees’ right to safety.

Today, I proudly work as an Expert by Experience (EBE) Consultant, helping the organisation improve how it works and make sure lived experience is central to its decisions. It’s an honour to be part of this incredible group committed to advocating for a world where everyone has the right to live freely and safely. We celebrate Eid and many other events, and we are working on Safe Passage’s new strategy to create a more welcoming world.

Being a Young Leader, and now a consultant, is profoundly meaningful to me. I am surrounded by a community that champions justice and embodies hope. I collaborate closely with the staff at Safe Passage International, contributing my ideas to decisions both within and outside the organization. I’ve engaged in campaigns, facilitated team discussions, and shared my story to raise awareness about our lives, becoming a voice for those who are too often silenced.

In my role as a consultant, I’ve worked with the Communications team, gaining invaluable insights into the organization and becoming an integral part of the effort to support and uplift our mission. I learned so much and contributed my ideas to enhance our impact.

Our achievements both as Young Leaders and Experts by Experience are countless. Every moment spent fighting for the rights and safety of refugees is a victory.

I aspire to be a powerful voice, showcasing the incredible talents within our community. We are doctors, teachers, artists, writers, and so much more. We are all legends in our own right. We share a deep yearning for belonging, and it’s essential for everyone to embrace us.

Together, let us demonstrate that our diversity is our strength, and that acceptance is the foundation of a brighter future for all.