Hello!

I am Brayan,

Let me tell you my story when I arrived for the first time to the UK.

In 2014, I arrived in the UK with a heart full of dreams and a mind full of uncertainty. I was an immigrant, raised solely by my mother, who had always been my pillar of strength. But stepping onto British soil, I quickly realized how unprepared I was for the challenges ahead. I didn't speak a word of English, and that alone made every day feel like an uphill battle.

Finding work was tough, and even when I did, it was barely enough to survive. There were days when I went to bed hungry, uncertain if I'd have enough to eat the next day. I found myself cleaning pubs at 5 a.m., scrubbing floors and wiping tables, while the rest of the world was still asleep. In the afternoons, I attended English classes, determined to pursue my dream of studying at a UK university. It was exhausting, but I kept pushing forward, one step at a time.

Being an introvert made things even harder. Loneliness became a constant companion. Over the years, I lost many friends—some to distance, others to misunderstandings. I struggled with the weight of silence, unable to express my thoughts, fears, and desires. I didn’t have the courage to speak up, fearing judgment and rejection. It felt like I was trapped inside my own mind, fighting battles no one could see.

Then, in 2019, my father passed away. His death shattered me in ways I couldn't have imagined. Grief overwhelmed me, and I felt more alone than ever. But amidst the darkness, I slowly began to realize something powerful—I wasn't alone. As I opened myself up, I met others who were facing similar mental health struggles. Their stories mirrored mine in so many ways, and I found solace in our shared experiences.

Through these connections, I learned that vulnerability is not weakness; it is strength. It’s okay to talk, to share, and to seek support. Slowly, I started to break free from the chains of silence that had held me back for so long.

Today, I stand stronger than I ever imagined, using my journey, I want to raise awareness and funds for mental health charities. As I prepare for the UWCB Sheffield on 5th April 2025, we are reminded of the importance of mental well-being in our lives. Every step taken during this sporting event is not just a physical challenge; it represents a commitment to raising awareness and funds for those who struggle with mental health issues. Together, we can create a ripple effect of hope and support.

We invite you to join me in this vital mission. Your generous contributions will help us reach our target of £500, enabling the Mental Health Foundation to continue their essential work. Let’s stand together, advocate for change, and ensure that everyone has access to the mental health support they deserve.