My Journey with LEAH
I moved to the UK from the Philippines in 2017. When I first arrived, I didn’t feel confident speaking English. I was very shy and I felt scared to talk to people. Because of this, I often felt lonely and found it difficult to connect with others.
Before I came to LEAH, I was not comfortable talking to anyone. I didn’t know how to start conversations, and I worried about making mistakes when I spoke English. I felt isolated and it was hard for me to make friends.
Starting with LEAH
When I started with LEAH, things slowly began to change for me. I met Faye and Savannah, and they supported me in different ways.
Faye is my volunteer tutor. She teaches me English and helps me practise speaking. She is very patient and kind, and she explains things in a way I can understand. She helps me feel comfortable learning step by step and I feel more confident trying even when I make mistakes.
Savannah is my coordinator. She helps me organise my learning, access opportunities, and supports me with applications and next steps. She is always there when I need help and encourages me to try new things even when I feel unsure.
Now I feel more confident. I can understand more English, I feel happier speaking with people, and I feel less alone.
Before LEAH I felt lonely because I was scared to talk to people, but now I feel much more confident and supported.
Building Confidence and Social Skills
Since being with LEAH, I have had many chances to practise speaking English in real situations. One example was a Christmas trip to the British Museum, where I was able to practise speaking with others in a real environment.
This helped me a lot. I learned that when people speak slowly and are patient, it is easier to understand each other. I also started making friends, which I didn’t feel able to do before.
Strength and Stem Programme
One of my biggest achievements is being accepted onto the Strength and Stem programme, which is a supportive programme for women rebuilding confidence and skills after difficult life experiences. It helps participants develop practical skills, especially through creative training like floristry, while also building confidence, wellbeing, and pathways into education and work.
Savannah supported me a lot with the application and interview. Without her help, I don’t think I would have been able to do it. She guided me step by step and encouraged me when I felt nervous.
I went to Kings Cross and met the people who run the sessions. I also made a new friend in my first week, and now we go together to find new venues for sessions. I will be starting a floristry practical session soon, which I am very excited about.
Being part of this programme helps me feel like I am learning real skills and gaining confidence for the future, not just in floristry but also in how I work with others and prepare for education and employment.
College and Future Learning
Savannah also helped me find Islington Adult Community College. I will start a computer course on 2nd June, and I am on the waiting list for ESOL in September at Islington Adult Community College.
I feel very happy and excited because going to college was my dream when I first came to LEAH. Now I feel like I am slowly achieving it.
Practical Support and Independence
Savannah also took me to the library, which is only 10 minutes from my home. We went there to complete paperwork for Strength and Stem and to register for floristry books.
I am very shy, so I find these things difficult on my own, but with support I am learning how to do them independently.
Reflection
LEAH has helped me so much. Faye, my volunteer tutor, and Savannah, my coordinator, have both been very patient and supportive in different ways.
I feel proud of what I have achieved. I now have more confidence speaking English, I have made new friends, and I am starting college courses. I feel excited about my future, and I want to continue learning so I can achieve my dream of being in a safe and supportive work environment.
