Image from the Bristol Post.
When Ali was just 16 years old, he ran away from a distressing, troubled life in Albania.
Crossing Europe through the Calais Jungle, he made his way to England and a new life. His foster family have given him all the love and support that he had never had in his young life in the 2 years he has been in Britain. This has enabled him to develop both as a person and as a budding chef.
Ali started college and became the top student on his catering course. I noticed his talent and have mentored him over the last 12 months. I have since offered him an apprenticeship at my restaurant 'The Elephant' in Torquay.
Ali was recently awarded 3rd place in a national competition, despite being the youngest and most inexperienced entrant. All of this has been achieved despite living with the constant fear that he would not be allowed to remain in the UK.
Sadly, this fear has now become a reality. Ali has to take his appeal against deportation to court. He does not qualify for legal aid so is determined to find the means to pay for his fight. He has some money from his earnings but intends through his Just Giving page to pay the rest.
For the first time in his life, Ali has a family where he feels loved and cared for, as well as a future as a chef with huge potential.
#Future4Ali is the campaign to highlight his plight and hopefully gather support for his claim for Sanctuary and a future in the UK.
>>> You can donate here
>>> Why does Simon Hulstone think there's an attitude crisis and not a skills crisis?
