Ivan joined the Food for All Group when GCP opened up the group to new members at the start of the third round of funding in June 2023. He had held a high profile position in football management at an executive level, before having to claim asylum in the UK in 2021 with his wife and two children.
Ivan shared how at the time of joining the Food for All project, he was still waiting for his last interview with the Home Office. This time was characterised by a lot of anxiety and a sense of hopelessness regarding the future. Being part of the project provided a structure and routine to keep to which, along with the opportunity to contribute his skills and share his experiences with others in the asylum process, helped to improve Ivan’s mental health.
“When I read the advert for the role [with the Food for All Group] it really spoke to me,” said Ivan. “It’s something that I wanted to be part of, to make the change I wanted to see. Joining the group and making a contribution was a very good opportunity for me, because I am not being allowed to work or do anything. [But being part of the project] gives you hope in life that at least you can still make a contribution to the community.”
Ivan found there were also other benefits of being part of the project, including learning how things are done in this country, and support with integration. The Food for All project was also the first opportunity Ivan had to share his experiences with other people with lived experience of the asylum process.
“It has changed the way I look at things because I thought I was in the worst situation, but I’ve seen people who are having tougher challenges than me. Sometimes you can think that you’re the unlucky one. And despite this, I’ve seen team members who are going through the toughest situation, but they still have the opportunity to come out and present themselves.”
Three years on from arriving in the UK, Ivan and his family have now happily been granted Leave to Remain. Ivan had anticipated that, once his immigration status had been confirmed, he would continue his career in football management. However, as a result of working with the Food for All Group, his career goals have changed and he now hopes to continue to raise awareness, advocate for and bring change for New Scots.
“I have discovered how much my contribution is needed here; I feel really motivated now,” said Ivan, who is about to embark on a degree in Common Law at University of Glasgow, while continuing as part of the Food for All Group. He added: “I’ve got something to give. I’ve got some kind of belonging.”
