Samir's story
Whilst there is still a negative view on refugees which labels them as helpless, unskilled and traumatised people, here at ACH we like to prove this view wrong by demonstrating refugee success stories that highlight their talent, ambition and skills. Samir’s story is one of these successes.
Originally from Sudan, Samir came to the UK already passionate about accountancy, having studied for an Accountancy degree in Sudan. However, Samir had to leave his home country before he was able to finish his degree. This did not stop him in pursuing this career route, as with support from ACH Samir is going to be starting an Accountancy degree this September at the University of Wolverhampton. Samir was a tenant with ACH for eight months and during his time with us he attended various social activities to integrate him into the community and also attended English classes.
Even though Samir is not starting university until September, he has recently left ACH to work full-time over the summer. His new job is with Amazon Warehouse and he will be working up until he starts his new course. ACH wish Samir all the best in his new journey and are proud to have helped him on his way – we will be keeping in touch with Samir and will give updates of how he is getting on at university.
ACH was established in 2008 as a social enterprise specialising in the economic, social and civil integration of refugees through accommodation and community based training support. We have successfully resettled over 2000 individuals from refugee backgrounds in this time. We employ 60 staff and operate in the West of England and the West Midlands as a strategic partner for local authorities and government prime contractors.
Through the establishment of our subsidiary training arm 'Himilo Training' we are committed to supporting refugees through work experience, language training, IT literacy and employability skills. Our #RethinkingRefugee programme is considered outstanding and reflects our commitment to making sure refugees become part of society rather than remaining marginalised and underemployed.