“When I saw the ticket to Manchester, it all felt real”
Mojahed Abdelrhaman Mnzool could hardly sit still as he settled into the gazebo at the Finn Church Aid office in Kampala.
Every few moments, he unlocked his phone to check the flight itinerary to Manchester, UK, a smile forming on his face.
After years of waiting, uncertainty, and rebuilding his life far from home, he was finally preparing for a new chapter in the United Kingdom.
The Sudanese refugee fled conflict and insecurity in Kalague, Sudan, in 2021, seeking safety in Uganda. Like many who arrive in a new country with little support, he had to start over.
Despite being a qualified electrical engineer with more than 12 years of experience in electrical transmission and high-voltage systems, finding stable employment in Uganda proved difficult.
“There were times when I felt frustrated because I had experience and skills, but getting the right opportunity was not easy,” he recalls. “Back at home I had a job, but here in Uganda I was struggling to feed my family.”
In Sudan, Mojahed had worked extensively on power lines and high-voltage infrastructure projects, building strong technical expertise. Displacement not only interrupted his career but also the future he had envisioned for himself and his family.
Everything began to change when he came across a WhatsApp group sharing information on labour mobility pathways and opportunities for refugees.
Curious, he followed up and later connected with Finn Church Aid (FCA) and Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB), organizations supporting refugees to access international employment opportunities.
“I heard about the opportunity through a WhatsApp group,” he says.
“I reached out to FCA and they helped me. The staff guided me through the application process, helped me prepare my CV, and supported me during interviews. I really appreciate the guidance I received throughout.”
When the wait finally gave way to change
That support eventually led to an opportunity to work as a Power Linesman with Infrastructure Support Solutions Limited (ISS) in the United Kingdom.
When confirmation of his placement and travel came through, the moment felt surreal.
“I received my flight details this morning. I am so happy.”
The role closely aligns with his previous experience in Sudan.
“I am a little bit nervous. I am going to a completely new environment, but I am happy about the opportunity to gain more experience, improve my skills, and grow professionally.”
Mojahed speaks with gratitude about Talent Beyond Boundaries, whose labour mobility pathways opened doors he once thought were closed.
“I want to thank TBB for creating employment opportunities for refugees. I am grateful for the chance to apply for jobs and represent fellow refugees.”
He also acknowledges support from UNHCR.
Carrying hope across borders
Now in Manchester, Mojahed is adjusting to a new work environment and beginning to settle into life in the United Kingdom.
Yet even as he builds a future abroad, his thoughts often return to his family.
Travelling alone was one of the hardest parts of the journey.
While his family could not accompany him immediately, he holds hope that they will one day join him so they can rebuild their lives together.
Looking ahead, Mojahed is focused on professional growth and advancing his expertise in electrical engineering and high-voltage transmission through further certifications.
“In the next few years, I want to increase my knowledge in my field and obtain higher certifications related to electrical engineering and high-voltage transmission.”
For him, success goes beyond personal achievement. It is about showing that refugees, when given opportunity and support, can contribute meaningfully to industries and societies.
“Do not give up. There are many opportunities, but you must prepare yourself. When opportunities come, preparation makes it easier to take them and change your situation.”
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Text and Images: Linda Kabuzire & Awein Rose Madot / FCA