I am from Chad in Central Africa. In 2018 I came to the UK to seek asylum because the situation in my country became very dangerous. The Home Office moved me between many different locations while I was waiting for a decision on my case. For 3 years I lived in a hotel, I had no stability and my mental health began to suffer.

Football became my escape. Living in the hotel, I needed a reason to leave the room, to meet people, and to improve my English. Football helped me sleep better, reduced my stress, and gave me a sense of purpose again. I played as a striker, and my speed quickly stood out — in 16 games, I scored 14 goals.

Friends I played with encouraged me to try running and suggested I could run the London Marathon. I took the chance and registered.

I was given a marathon place in 2021— but I knew absolutely nothing about running. I didn’t have proper trainers, I had no music to listen to and I had never trained. I was placed in Wave 5 at the back. During the race, I trusted my instincts and weaved through the runners. I finished the London Marathon in 2h31m, placing 107th overall.

My body was in complete shock. I felt so unwell that I had to be put in a wheelchair at the finish. Every part of me was in pain, and my body was telling me "NEVER again.” But inside, I felt pride, freedom, and strength. That race showed me what sport could do, not just for my body, but for my mind.

In 2022, I started running regularly. I still had no professional coaching, so I created my own training plans and learned on the go. I entered the London Marathon that year again and improved my personal best to 2h28m, finishing 45th.

After 7 long years of waiting, I finally received a decision on my asylum case in 2025. For the first time, I was able to look forward and explore new opportunities — including running, I’ve continued to train, learn, and improve. I acheived my current personal best 2h22m at Manchester Marathon where I came 9th overall!

Running has become a symbol of how far I’ve come — from uncertainty and isolation to confidence and purpose.

In 2026, I am running the Hackney Half Marathon to support City of Sanctuary UK. I believe deeply in helping charities, especially organisations that support refugee communities, making them feel welcomed and safe.

I am grateful for the support I received during my asylum journey, I know first-hand how stressful and frightening the process can be. If my running can help City of Sanctuary to continue their vital work and support others going through the same challenges, I will give the race everything I have.

Thank you for supporting my journey — and for standing with those who are still searching for safety, dignity, and hope.

Watch the video to learn more about the amazing work of City of Sanctuary UK!