Akifa’s parents came from Sudan. They travelled to Britain searching for safety, peace, and work after the terrible civil war that tore the country apart.

Akifa was born in London. Grandma came to help out, Mum worked long hours as an accountant and provided for the family. Dad tried hard to settle in London, but could not. He returned to Sudan on his own.

Grandma’s health deteriorated and mum became her carer. She had to reduce her working hours to look after her own mother and Akifa but the family struggled financially. Mum often found it difficult to pay the basic bills. Solidarity Sports helped by putting the family in touch with various organisations and, to their delight, offered holiday activities for Akifa.

Akifa only knew one child in the group when she joined us. She felt very shy. She hardly spoke and never looked at anyone in the eyes. She occasionally took part in games but would never initiate one or share her ideas.

Very slowly, her confidence grew and she started to communicate. We were all surprised by her good ideas and rich vocabulary as well as her thought-provoking comments: she had not shared them in the past.

Akifa did well at school but with the COVID-19 lockdown, studying from home became a struggle. Grandma’s fragile health meant that leaving home was risky. So the family stayed home. Solidarity Sports organised food deliveries and later, friends brought the shopping to the front door.

Studying from mum’s mobile phone was stressful, the daily worksheets and tasks were difficult to read. She became reluctant to do any work. Solidarity Sports gave Akifa a laptop which changed her attitude towards learning.

Akifa is now back at school. She is doing very well and has very little to catch up with. She is an extremely conscientious child and, we are certain, will do very well in the future.