This week, as part of National Care Leavers’ Week, By the Bridge Senior Out of Hours Coordinator Alexis Stone shares the story of her foster son, Amir.
Amir was a lone child refugee from Iran who was looked after by Alexis and Ron through By the Bridge. He was 15 years old when he made the journey to Britain and today, at age 23, Amir is an architecture graduate who has just begun his master’s degree. He also volunteers at a summer school, helping underprivileged young people to apply to higher education.
When he reached Britain, Amir was granted humanitarian protection and has since been given refugee status and leave to remain. He thanks his foster parents for the love and support they gave him, and also his social worker who helped him to reach university.
Despite leaving care several years ago, Amir remains a part of Alexis and Ron’s family and they are both incredibly proud of him. His foster parents know his story, and how his experience in Iran and his journey affect him. Alexis said Amir is "such an inspiration" and has been extremely brave in sharing his story publicly. Amir's aim is to inspire others and show other children that they can overcome adversity and achieve their ambitions.
If you have a subscription to The Times, the full story of Amir’s journey is available to read here: https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/lone-child-refugee-completes-his-journey-by-graduating-52t3wrlcc