I was born to a mother struggling with addiction and spent much of my childhood in the care system. By the age of 14, I had become involved in gang life, which led to numerous encounters with the police and periods of imprisonment throughout my teen years and twenties.
Following my final release from prison in 2012, I found myself homeless and living on the South Bank in central London. On Christmas Day, having gone without food, I was sitting in the grounds of St Thomas’ Hospital when a security guard approached me with a turkey and cranberry sandwich and a coffee. It was the only meal I had that day, and his simple act of kindness left a lasting impression on me.
In that moment, I made a promise to myself: if I were ever given the opportunity to turn my life around, I would find a way to give back to others.
In 2014, after securing stable accommodation and rebuilding my life, I learned about Streetlytes and joined as a volunteer. Not long afterwards, I was offered a role as the organisation’s chef. Since then, I have dedicated myself to preparing meals for our guests and supporting the work of the charity.
While the role can be challenging at times, I often reflect on that Christmas Day and the kindness shown to me by a stranger. The memory of that sandwich and coffee reminds me why I do what I do: to offer dignity, compassion, and hope to people who may be facing some of the most difficult circumstances of their lives.