From Sudan To Smethwick
Abdullah, England
The British Red Cross, as well as being part of the world’s largest humanitarian network, is also the biggest independent provider of support to refugees and people seeking asylum in the UK. The organisation has been supporting refugees since before the First World War and today their work ranges from providing food, clothing and learning opportunities to reuniting families who have been separated as a result of conflict, disaster or persecution.
Surviving to Thriving is a project which supports unaccompanied asylum seekers and refugees aged 11-25. The project provides these young people with life and leadership skills, advice, and mental health support so that they can rebuild their lives and thrive in the UK. This included an Easter football tournament, bringing together children and young people accessing young refugee projects in London and Birmingham. British Red Cross refugee services often organise one-off or regular football activities in partnership with local coaches and clubs.
What did you try to show with the photos? Was there any wider meaning with the photos?
Three of my friends from British Red Cross programme. It was in London during a football tournament with British Red Cross. I wanted to capture my friends kicking the ball but also the good energy that we felt whilst playing football together.
Did you play football before you came to the UK? If so, who with?
Yes, I played football in Sudan and I used to play for a football team called وحدة which in English means ‘Unity’. I would also play a lot of the time with my friends.
Why is football important to you and your community?
When I was growing up, I always played football because it came naturally to me. I loved to always play. With football, when you’re upset, playing makes you happy. It made me happy.
Football is everything to me. Sudanese people love football, but you have no help from the government if you want to become a professional player over there. In the UK I feel I have a chance to play football, like there is hope.
What role does football play in your life at the moment?
I have played with the Aston Villa Foundation. I also play football in the park with my friends. Football is my escape from the hard things I go through in the UK; it is what makes me happy. I want to become a professional football player for my favourite team, Arsenal.
Do you play football now with any British people?
Yes, I played with a team in Smethwick and I have learnt to communicate with them, I have enjoyed learning English with them. They are also very skilled players and they have taught me a lot.
