Meet Sabawii, our Caseworker

We spoke to one of our newest volunteers, Sabawii who explained why he got interested in REFEO, what this work means to him and what he hopes to gain from this position.

I was born in Tigray, Ethiopia, where I graduated with a degree in civil engineering. Later on, I obtained a certificate in diplomacy and human rights from the US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights.

As a caseworker, I help by getting in touch with refugees and asylum-seekers who need our help. I contact them to find out their needs and I work with them to solve any issues they have.

What motivates you with this work?

At the moment, we are seeing many refugees fleeing their countries and some of them arriving in the UK. Most of them need help from organisations so they can study and get access to laptops and other devices they need to be connected and find opportunities to develop. It is through this kind of support that they can improve their situation and find a better life.

The reason I chose to volunteer with REFEO is because I was very interested in their project to repurpose unused laptops and smartphones and donate them to refugees. Later I learned about other work they do like mentoring and offering professional courses. I feel that working directly with our clients I can make a real difference to their lives. Another reason is that I am passionate about this work and also I want to develop my own skills.

For me the most rewarding part of volunteering with REFEO is the satisfaction of supporting others while growing my self-confidence.

What is your favourite place in the world?

Any corner of the world where I can live in peace is the best place for me; although at the moment London is my favourite.

What brings you joy? 

I wish everyone in this world can live peacefully and without lacking anything.