My name is Loddan and for the past two years I’ve been working as the Communications and Events Assistant at JRS UK.
My first link to JRS UK came through my mum, Dallya, who many of you will know as the Activities Coordinator. Even before joining JRS UK officially in 2023, I have known JRS UK for many years – helping out at community events or volunteering with refugee friends during International Women’s Day celebrations.
During my two years at JRS UK, I have been lucky to spend a lot of time with refugee friends – taking photos, filming videos, and working together to share their experiences. Every story I came across was a reminder of strength, faith, and resilience. Over time, I built genuine relationships and had the joy of seeing so many people slowly come out of their shells and share their gifts.
No two days were ever the same. I never knew who I’d meet or what I’d learn when I walked through the doors – our office is always alive with community, and that spirit of connection is something I’ll truly miss.
There have been so many moments that will stay with me – from the buzz of the social drop-ins, held every second and fourth Tuesday, where refugee friends, volunteers, and staff gather to share conversation and a hearty meal together. These drop-ins are often the heart of JRS UK’s community, offering a space for connection, laughter, and friendship.
Among the many encounters I’ve cherished, one stands out vividly. A refugee friend I spent time within the kitchen and during activities began affectionately calling me ‘mama’ – a term of warmth and respect in her culture. We shared many moments of close conversations, her telling me about her background, to me witnessing her grow her expertise in the kitchen, as well as flourish in multiple other activities at JRS UK. Building that bond was incredibly special, and I was moved to tears when I learned that she had finally received her long-awaited leave to remain status this past month.
Working in communications comes with its own set of challenges. I often find myself reflecting on how important it is to tell the full stories of our refugee friends – the human experience behind that go beyond statistics and headlines. That’s something I hope to carry forward in my future work: creating room for compassion, nuance, and truth in the way we communicate.
JRS UK has taught me what resilience, dignity, and community truly look like. I’ve seen hope in the middle of struggle, joy where you’d least expect it, and generosity that continues to inspire me.
There are many things I’ll miss at JRS UK – the refugee friends who shared their stories with me, the colleagues who made the office feel like home, and the volunteers whose dedication keeps this place running.
To everyone at JRS UK – refugee friends, volunteers, colleagues, and supporters -thank you. It’s your generosity, compassion, and unwavering commitment that make this place what it is: a true community of hope. To our supporters especially, please continue to stand alongside our refugee friends. I’ve witnessed first hand the power of your kindness – in the legal advice that restores dignity, the creative activities that spark joy, and the JRS Shop that sustains everyday life. Every act of support, no matter how small, ripples out and makes a lasting difference.
Leaving isn’t easy, but I take with me the memories, lessons, and stories that have shaped me. Working here hasn’t just been a job – it’s been a daily reminder of the power of human connection and the beauty of hope.
Thank you, JRS UK, for everything.
