After arriving in the UK from Yemen through family reunion, Saeed struggled initially to make new connections and integrate into his new-found environment. To address his feelings of loneliness, he started attending the Dreamers youth group. Here, he was introduced to an employability caseworker and from that point began engaging more and more with a variety of services offered at Oasis. 

Those who have worked with him have described him as a ‘very enthusiastic young man’, witnessing his strong commitment to all that he puts his mind to. Saeed particularly enjoyed attending the storytelling ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) sessions, a method of learning English through discovering and comparing different cultural stories and creative writing, which he described as more beneficial than what he was doing in school. He also started attending the study group at Oasis and demonstrated keen interest in working towards success in his future.

With the employability caseworker at Oasis, he created a CV, registered with a hiring platform, and was able to start applying for jobs. After a few setbacks, he was thrilled to report back to his case worker that he had got a job as a cleaner and maintenance worker. He is currently training to paint walls, fix windows and doors. Alongside this, he is now studying for his Security Industry Authority license.

He said:

“The best thing that happened to me was finding Oasis and meeting the right person, Ms. Huda. She is one of the best people I have ever met and helped us a lot. She taught me how to integrate into the community, how to make life easier, and how to look for a job. She also helped me create my CV and supported me when I applied for jobs for the first time.

When I was rejected from my first job application, Ms. Huda told me, "Don't give up, keep going." I followed her advice and continued trying until I finally found a job. I was very happy, and I am proud of myself for not giving up and for finding the right place, which is Oasis.

I would recommend Oasis to anyone who is new, lacks experience, or feels alone. The staff there are always willing to help with anything you need. I would especially recommend asking for Ms. Huda, as she is one of the most supportive and helpful people and is always ready to assist others.”

We are so pleased that Saeed has been able to not only discover new opportunities in a new country but thrive in them too. We are all wishing him the best of luck in his new job and with his studies!

Saeed's name has been changed for confidentiality.