Stories of Sanctuary: Yahya, migrant community drop-in volunteer
In our Stories of Sanctuary, we share stories from those seeking asylum in our Borough of Sanctuary and the community supporting them.
In this edition we speak to Yahya. Yahya arrived in the UK seeking asylum and has since become a dedicated volunteer at our regular migrant community drop-ins, helping others navigate the challenges he once faced himself. He takes pride in supporting the community and has grown because of it.
Yahya’s story
When I first arrived in the UK, I was placed in a hotel. As someone seeking asylum, life felt uncertain. I often came to the migrant community drop-ins for help, and it was always a welcoming place. People listened, supported me, and made me feel comfortable. After I received my status, I knew I wanted to give something back. I thought to myself: if even one per cent of the people we help here return to support the community, it would make a huge difference.
As a volunteer, I help people with all sorts including filling in forms, council support, benefits, parking payments, and other paperwork. If I don’t know the answer, there’s always someone who does, or we refer people to the right place.
I speak Kurdish, Turkish, Persian, Arabic, and English. This has been useful at Lea Bridge Library, and being able to communicate with people who need support is so helpful. I remember a woman who came in recently, very worried about her housing benefit being suspended. She was anxious and afraid of going to court. We called the council, explained the situation, and they resolved it quickly. She left relieved and happy, almost in tears. For me, that moment showed how even small help can be life changing.
Volunteering has also helped me personally. I struggled with mental health problems and found it difficult to meet new people, leave my house sometimes or go to unfamiliar places. But here, I feel more confident. Helping others makes me proud. Seeing people leave happier than when they arrived gives me strength and reminds me why I continue.
I was directed to college, where I started a plumbing course. At first, I didn’t know a single word of English. Three years later, I’ve completed my English GCSE, and I’m close to finishing my plumbing qualification. Soon, I hope to start a good job.
Looking back, I see how far I’ve come. From arriving in 2022 with no English, to now speaking confidently and preparing for a new career, I feel grateful. That’s why I want to continue helping others, because I know how much it matters.
Together we are Waltham Forest
Yahya’s journey is part of a wider story of community and working together across our borough. Through our campaign Together we are Waltham Forest, we celebrate the positive change happening every day, from residents and businesses to community groups, partners, and the council.