Eskander

Soon after he was released, his mother sold her possessions to raise funds to help Eskander escape Ethiopia. This was the beginning of a decade long journey that saw Eskander become the victim of slavery, human trafficking, and homelessness before finally boarding a bus, in April 2019, to seek a new life in Belfast.

Upon arriving at Simon Community’s Saintfield Road project, Eskander remembers feeling nervous and depressed. However, Simon Community staff worked with him to form a trusting relationship and ultimately help him gain refugee status. Over time, he formed a new group of friends and under advice from his doctor was encouraged to join a local running club as a way to manage his trauma.

Reflecting on his first race, the Feile an Phobail 10k marathon where he came in first place, Eskander said:

Aware of the positive benefits running was having on his mental health, staff arranged for Eskander to move to the organisation’s 414 Falls Road project where he was closer to his running club. Staff at the project are currently helping Eskander to establish his new life in Northern Ireland by working with him to secure a private rental property and his driving licence, so that he has a form of photo ID.

Speaking of the progress Eskander has made during his time with Simon Community his key support worker Timothy Anderson, Senior Practitioner at 414 Falls Road said:

Now settling into Belfast life, Eskander has been accepted onto Simon Community’s tenancy deposit scheme and wants nothing more than to find a job and a home he can call his own. Speaking of his experience with Simon Community, he said:

The 40^th Belfast City Marathon is on Sunday 1^st May. By running, relaying or walking for Simon Community and raising just £70 you could provide 3 Welcome Packs, filled with essential items and 3 emergency heating grants, helping someone just like Eskander. Click here to learn more.