Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what brought you to where you are today?

Leaving my homeland was not a choice I made lightly; it was a matter of survival. As a bisexual man, I was outed in my community, leading to persecution and fear for my life. I knew I had to leave my country to seek safety, which took me through multiple countries until I eventually arrived in the United Kingdom on a small boat crossing.

Once in the UK, I sought a safe space where I could connect with the LGBTQ+ community. That’s when I discovered Sahir, an organisation dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ asylum seekers. It became a crucial part of my journey, helping me navigate trauma, build confidence, and find a sense of belonging. Thanks to their support, I was granted refugee status on 11th September 2024. With this newfound stability, I secured a job as a production operative and now look forward to advancing my career in healthcare and mental health nursing.

How did you first hear about Sahir, and what led you to connect with us?

I first heard about Sahir through a friend who was living in the same Home Office accommodation as me. At the time, he didn’t know about my sexual orientation but recommended Sahir for asylum support. When I first arrived, I was hesitant to open up about my identity and experiences. However, with time and trust, I was able to share my story and fully embrace my identity as a bisexual man.

In what ways has Sahir supported you, and what difference has that made in your life?

Sahir has been a lifeline for me. Through their support, I gained the confidence to speak about my sexual orientation, even with my GP—something I once found incredibly difficult. Meeting others from my community through peer support groups made me realise that I was not alone.

Beyond emotional support, Sahir also helped me tackle mental health challenges. I struggled with chronic alcoholism as a way of coping with trauma, but with the counselling and mental health support provided by Sahir, I was able to begin my recovery. Sahir became like a family to me—I no longer felt isolated.

Participating in activities such as yoga, English classes, and outdoor events gave me structure and purpose. Most importantly, Sahir guided me through the asylum process, which ultimately led to me being granted refugee status.

Where are you now on your journey, and what are you most proud of?

Today, I finally feel safe. I no longer live in fear of deportation or persecution. I am focused on building a career and giving back to the society that has welcomed me. I am incredibly proud of my confidence and my progress in overcoming depression. Recovery is a journey, but I am moving forward.

One of the things I am most proud of is being able to introduce others to Sahir. I know firsthand how life-changing their support can be, and I want to ensure that others in similar situations have access to the same help and community that I did.

What are your hopes for the future, and how can we continue to support you on your path?

Sahir has been, and continues to be, my family. I hope to always have access to their support when I face challenges that feel too big to handle alone. My dream is to become a mental health nurse, and I am currently receiving CBT therapy to help me along this path. With the right support and determination, I believe I can make a real difference in the lives of others who have faced similar struggles.

Why is LGBT+ History Month important to you?

LGBTQ+ History Month holds deep significance for me. It serves as a reminder of who I am, where I come from, and what I have been through. It acknowledges the struggles and victories of those who came before us while also highlighting the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.

For me personally, it represents my journey—from the trauma of being outed and persecuted to the freedom of expressing myself openly in the United Kingdom. It also signifies my ability to support others, ensuring they too find the safety and belonging that I was fortunate enough to receive.

My journey has not been easy, but with the support of Sahir, I have found hope, strength, and a new sense of purpose. I am excited for what the future holds and grateful for the chance to build a life where I can truly be myself.

For anyone who may be in a similar position, know that you are not alone. There is support out there, and there is always hope.