I am taking on a big challenge. I am running the London Marathon this year! I will be supporting the brilliant charity South London Refugee Association (SLRA), which carries out vital work every day within the migrant community in South London, providing immigration advice and casework support and running positive activities for people to get involved in their communities. 

Migrants are a harshly and unfairly treated global minority who face ceaseless challenges, such as issues with access to housing, work, and legal aid. These factors, along with an economically strained context within the United Kingdom, have contributed to the rise of xenophobic attitudes, which further threaten migrants’ livelihoods. Within this challenging context, the impact of SLRA is immeasurable as it seeks to foster understanding and empathy, challenge prejudice and discrimination, and equip migrants with the tools they need to stand on their own and thrive independently. 

As a migrant from Turkey, I am familiar with the difficulties of settling into a new life overseas. I deeply appreciate the welcoming presence of the many friends, colleagues and kind strangers I have crossed paths with throughout my journey here. Having lived abroad for over fifteen years, I know the importance of even minor gestures such as checking in on each other and acting in solidarity to combat loneliness and hardship.  

As a volunteer with the SLRA, I have directly observed that they excel at supporting migrants’ living conditions and bridging communities.  

Please join me in supporting this cause and share my call with others in your community!