Volunteer – English Teacher

Last November I moved with my husband to London from New York, where I spent the last 5 ½ years working for Travelers Aid at JFK Airport, assisting stranded passengers.

Where do you live now?
I live in Bayswater.

Why are you interested in migration?
I really admire the strength and courage it takes to move from a harsh situation to a new life in another country, and I would like to help smooth this transition for migrants and offer support and encouragement.

What do you do at MRCF?
I started out by joining the mentoring program and I am now observing Jeff ’s English classes and offering one to- one tutoring. I am also co-leading the Blog Team with Nick and participating in Charlene’s Women’s Empowerment Group.

How did you come to work at MRCF?
I knew that I wanted to work with refugee communities, and when I came to London I contacted Refugee Action, who put me in touch with MRCF.

What do you think is unique about MRCF?
The friendly staff at MRCF effectively create a welcoming environment and a real community. Frequent and varied activities make MRCF an engaging place.

What issues do you think are most important to migrants in London?
I think it is very important for migrants to feel like they have support and are not alone. I would say health, housing and legal status are the most pressing issues facing migrants.

What are you looking forward to in the next year?
I am looking forward to dedicating myself to the activities in which I am already involved at MRCF, as well as participating in new activities and getting to know more members of this community.

“It is very important

for migrants to

feel like they have

support and are not

alone.”