My journey with the Afghanistan and Central Asian Association (ACAA) has been a profoundly transformative experience, one that has not only shaped my understanding of the world but has also deepened my commitment to advocating for justice and fairness. Coming from a family of immigrants who faced numerous challenges upon arriving in the UK, I have always been acutely aware of the struggles that many face when seeking safety and a better life. However, working directly with refugees has provided me with a more intimate understanding of these challenges, as well as the resilience and strength that so many of these individuals embody.
Personal Growth: A Deeper Connection to My Roots
Growing up in an immigrant household, I witnessed firsthand the difficulties my parents encountered as they tried to navigate a new and unfamiliar country. The language barriers, cultural differences, and systemic obstacles they faced left a lasting impression on me. These experiences shaped my early understanding of injustice and sparked a desire to help others who were going through similar struggles. However, it wasn’t until I began working with refugees at the ACAA that I truly began to grasp the magnitude of the challenges faced by those fleeing conflict and persecution.
Working with refugees has brought me closer to my roots and has given me a profound sense of purpose. I have come to realise that my own background uniquely positions me to empathise with and support those who are walking a path similar to the one my parents once walked. Every story I hear, every person I meet, reminds me of the resilience of my own family and the importance of offering compassion and support to those in need.
Learning from Refugees: Lessons in Resilience and Humanity
One of the most important lessons I have learned from working with refugees is the incredible resilience of the human spirit. Many of the individuals I have met have endured unimaginable hardships—war, persecution, displacement—yet they continue to persevere in the face of misfortune. Their stories are a testament to the strength and courage that lies within us all, and they have inspired me to approach my work with greater empathy and determination.
Beyond resilience, I have also learned about the importance of hope and community. For many refugees, the journey to the UK is not just about escaping danger but about seeking a place where they can rebuild their lives and contribute to society. However, the transition is often full of challenges, and it is in these moments that the support of a compassionate community becomes invaluable. Through my work, I have seen how even the smallest acts of kindness can make a significant difference in the lives of those who are struggling. This has reinforced my belief in the importance of creating inclusive and supportive environments where refugees can thrive, just as presented at the ACAA.
Shaping My Perspective on Law and Justice
Working with refugees has also profoundly impacted my views on law and justice. While the UK is often seen as a silver lining for those fleeing oppression, the reality is that many refugees encounter significant legal and administrative hurdles upon arrival. The asylum process is often complex and difficult to navigate, leaving many vulnerable to exploitation and uncertainty. I have witnessed firsthand the frustration and fear that comes with not knowing whether one will be allowed to stay in the country they now call home.
This experience has made me deeply aware of the shortcomings of the current legal system in providing adequate protection and support for refugees. While there are laws in place meant to safeguard the rights of asylum seekers, in practice, these laws often fall short. Too many refugees find themselves trapped in a cycle of uncertainty, waiting for months or even years for a decision on their status, all the while living in precarious conditions.
I believe that there is a pressing need for reform in the UK’s approach to refugee protection. The legal framework must be more responsive to the realities that refugees face and must provide clearer pathways to safety and stability. This includes not only streamlining the asylum process but also ensuring that refugees have access to legal representation and are treated with dignity and respect throughout the process.
The Work Ahead: Advocating for Change
At the ACAA, my role involves providing effective support to refugees and asylum seekers across various areas of their lives. I assist in a range of areas, from helping them navigate the often complex immigration and asylum processes to offering guidance on securing housing, accessing welfare benefits, and addressing legal concerns. I also work closely with our clients to help them integrate into the local community, providing resources and information on education, employment, and healthcare services.
Much of my work revolves around advocacy. Raising awareness of the unique challenges that refugees face, and supporting clients to ensure they receive the help they need. Whether it’s filling out forms, writing appeals, or simply listening to their stories, my goal is to provide practical solutions and emotional support that can help ease the burden of their struggles. Every day, I strive to make a positive impact on the lives of the people we serve, and in turn, their stories continue to inspire me.
While I take pride in the work we do at the ACAA, I recognize that there is still much progress to be made. The resilience and determination I have witnessed among refugees serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for advocacy and systemic reform. Drawing from my own experiences and through my work with refugees, I feel a profound responsibility to contribute to efforts that promote a more just and equitable society.
In my role at the ACAA, I actively support refugees across various aspects of their lives, from navigating the complexities of resettlement to providing practical assistance with daily challenges. Through my volunteer work, I advocate for improvements to the asylum process and strive to raise awareness of the unique challenges refugees face.
My goal is to help ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background, are treated with fairness and dignity. I believe that by fostering greater understanding and collaboration, we can create a society where refugees are recognised not only as survivors but also as contributors who enrich our communities.
Conclusion: A Journey of Growth and Advocacy
In the future, I aim to become a solicitor, helping individuals from various walks of life navigate the legal system. While my work with refugees at ACAA has been deeply impactful, I am drawn to other areas of law, such as Commercial or intellectual property law, where I can continue advocating for justice and fairness.
My journey with the ACAA has been one of personal growth, learning, and advocacy. It has deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by refugees and has reinforced my commitment to fighting for a more just and compassionate society. The lessons I have learned from working with refugees have not only shaped my perspective on law and justice but have also inspired me to continue working towards a future where all individuals, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to live with dignity and hope.
ACAA has not only given me practical experience but has also taught me the importance of empathy, patience, and perseverance. These lessons will remain with me as I move forward into my legal career, where I hope to make a meaningful impact, no matter the sector I work in.
By Ela Mehmeti