
For the final episode of this season of Migrant Moods, the mood word is Empowerment. After highlighting and informing everyone about the systemic barriers caused by the UK's immigration system, we breakdown the opportunities for young people to get involved with We Belong and get empowered to advocate for their rights. Find links to our ongoing opportunities here: https://www.webelong.org.uk/get-involved Core Group- A team of young people with lived experience of the immigration system that helps shape our strategy and advocacy efforts. Monthly Gatherings- A safe and free third space to find community in people who have shared your experiences, and you can talk about your experiences freely and access support. Not to mention, we have workshops and just spaces to watch films or hang out and take a break from exams, work or uni! Policy and Parliamentary Working Group (Now called We Belong's Campaign Group)- Similar to our core group but with a special focus on engagement with Parliamentarians and Local Councilors across the UK. Thank you for being a part of Migrant Moods. We'll continue sharing content on our social media channels and let us know what kind of topics you would like us to cover. Until next time! ——————————————————————————————— Follow We Belong on social media and visit our website www.webelong.org.uk to learn more about how we empower young people to become leaders and share their stories. https://www.tiktok.com/@webelongukhttps://www.instagram.com/webelong19/Disclaimer: All the information contained in this episode does not constitute legal advice or immigration advice. Always seek support from an accredited immigration adviser or organisation regulated by the Immigration Advice Authority. Learn more at www.webelong.org.uk or www.childrenslegalcentre.com ——————————————————————————————— Hosts: Hillary Coker aka Seun Abdullahi Yussuf Special Guests: Mariam Bafo, Policy and Public Affairs Lead at We Belong About Migrant Moods The Migrant Moods podcast is a culmination of voices and stories that aim to connect young people, members of our community, and guest speakers who share our vision to empower young migrants and change the narrative currently surrounding migration in the UK. Through the insight of our own core group members, we harness our stories to speak out against injustice and create a collective voice powerful enough to reach young migrants across the country to let them know, 'You are not alone.' For the past year, we have been creating an online community and sharing resources and opportunities for young people while at the same time speaking out against the hostile environment either through their personal stories or by interviewing amazing guests ranging from campaigners to thought leaders and activists. We release a new episode each week, available to listen to on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and social media.
May 21
34 min

In this episode our hosts Abdullahi and Hillay interview We Belong’s Public Affairs and Policy lead Mariam Bafo, and dive deep into the mental health impacts caused by the UK’s hostile immigration system. For this group of young people who have lived in the UK for most of their lives, having to navigate constant rule changes, long routes to settlement, and a political and media environment that scapegoatmigrants, has become an everyday hurdle. Tired of being resilient and ‘model migrants’, our hosts speak out and share solutions and advice on navigating the systemic issues that impact them! New episodes every Thursday at 8 pm Find all the links and resources we mentioned in the episode here: https://www.webelong.org.uk/what-we-do/we-empower/story-telling-migrant-moods-podcast
May 14
1 hr 3 min

Join us as Asli and Fatima from our Manchester chapter share with us their journeys with We Belong. We talk about their recent appearance on live radio in response to last summer’s far right protests, and how getting involved with We Belong helped them become more knowledgeable on wider immigration issues. They also share their advice for councilors, teachers, local authorities or practitioners who want to learn more about supporting young people navigating the immigration system. New episodes every Thursday at 8pm Hosts: Martin Abdael @martin_abdael Asli Ali, We Belong Manchester Fatima Bangoura, We Belong Manchester Learn more at https://www.webelong.org.uk/get-involved
Apr 23
34 min

How do you enter the job market as a Young Migrant? How do I explain my immigration status to an employer? From navigating job searches during visa renewal periods to being your own advocate and explaining the routes to settlement on a job interview, follow along as Hillary interviews previous core group members Milana and Bhavik who share their experiences with the different challenges young migrants face when entering this perilous UK job market. Despite the challenges that come with getting a job while being a young migrant in the UK, Milana and Bavik show us that with resilience it’s possible to begin a future in rewarding careers. New episodes every Thursday at 8 pm! Hosts: Hillary Coker aka Seun @seununfiltered Special Guests: Milana Bout Bhavik Patel Follow us on @migrantmoodspodcast and be sure to follow We Belong on social media and subscribe to our newsletter at www.webelong.org.uk Disclaimer: All the information contained in this episode does not constitute legal advice or immigration advice. Always seek support from an accredited immigration adviser or organisation regulated by the Immigration Advice Authority. Learn more at www.webelong.org.uk or www.childrenslegalcentre.com (Coram Children’s Legal Centre)
Apr 2
49 min

What hurts more, a dating heartbreak or a friendship heartbreak? Is there such a thing as Black British Culture? Can you talk about politics with your future partners and family members? Find out our hot takes and stories on navigating dating, family and friendships as a young migrant in this new season of Migrant Moods! New episodes every Thursday at 8 pm Hosts: Hillary Coker aka Seun @seununfiltered Pelumi Fatayo @pelumifatayo host of Crisis Talk Podcast Peace Otomi @peaceotomi Follow us on @migrantmoodspodcast and be sure to follow We Belong on Instagram and social media.www.webelong.org.uk
Mar 26
38 min

In the latest episode of the Migrant Moods podcast, our hosts, Abdullahi and Keshon, embark on an insightful exploration of a career in law, precisely the barrister route.Joined by esteemed guest Hannah Lucy Wright, an employed barrister with years of experience in the civil service, this episode delves deep into the intricacies of choosing a career at the bar and shares valuable advice for aspiring lawyers. With personal anecdotes, professional tips, guidance on networking, and insight into the upcoming barrister apprenticeship scheme, it’s a must-listen for anyone aspiring to join the barrister or solicitor profession in the UK!Stay tuned for upcoming episodes, where the solicitor route will be explored in detail, continuing this journey into the multifaceted world of law. Until then, keep striving for your goals, and remember, you are not alone.Migrant Moods is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and social media. For more updates and opportunities, reach out to We Belong and join our initiatives! All our links here: https://linktr.ee/webelong19You can connect with our hosts on LinkedIn!Abdullahi YussufKeshon Smith
Apr 11, 2025
45 min

In this episode of the Migrant Meets Podcast, core members from We Belong—Jaya, Milana, Hilary, and Abdullahi—dive into an engaging discussion on Fatima Farheen Mirza’s debut novel, 'A Place for Us.'
The conversation explores the novel's themes of home, belonging, and the migrant experience, drawing parallels between the book and the real-life challenges migrants face in the UK.
Key topics include generational conflicts, cultural identity, and the emotional complexities of immigration. The episode also touches on the impact of events like last summer’s far-right protests on the migrant community and the personal experiences of young migrants adapting to life in the UK. The podcast encourages listeners to reflect on the idea of home and share their stories to foster a supportive community.
Don't forget to subscribe, share, and follow We Belong on social media for more updates! This episode was made in partnership with Transmission Roundhouse, who provided this amazing studio space. Be sure to visit their website and check out all their amazing opportunities!
Learn more about We Belong: www.webelong.org.uk
Episode music: "Make it" by Micah Stalgic (Produced by Superlative)
Check out Micah Stalgic on Spotify!
Jan 22, 2025
50 min

Welcome to the second season of the Migrant Meets Podcast, brought to you by We Belong—the only nationwide charity run by young migrants in the UK. In this episode, Co-hosts Milana and Amina dive into a deeply emotional and compelling discussion about the systemic barriers faced by young people growing up in the UK with precarious immigration status.
Featuring special guests Mariam Bafo, We Belong’s Policy and Public Affairs Lead and Victory, an activist and public speaker on migrant rights, the conversation sheds light on the bureaucratic challenges, high application fees, and mental health toll that young migrants endure as a result of unfair Home Office policies. Victory's touching reflections and advocacy for urgent change highlight the need for speaking up and uniting to challenge unfair policies. Tune in to hear about the powerful impact of our recent parliamentary event and how you can join the fight for a more equitable future for young migrants by joining the #OutOfTheLoop campaign. Don't forget to subscribe, share, and follow We Belong on social media for more updates! Special thanks to Transmission Roundhouse for providing the amazing studio recording space! You can check out the opportunities they have for young creatives on their website. Here's more about the episode:
Follow Victory on social media: @queenvictoryy
Learn more about We Belong and find resources made for you: www.webelong.org.uk
Episode music: "Make it" by Micah Stalgic (Produced by Superlative)
Meet rising Manchester music star and We Belong Core Group Member Micah Stalgic! Micah, originally from Nigeria, blends hip-hop, R&B, and trap to create a unique and captivating sound. His music reflects his cultural background while incorporating influences from the UK scene.
Check out Micah Stalgic on Spotify!
Jul 17, 2024
55 min

This special episode of Migrant Moods takes us to Manchester, where Ilsa and Amina meet changemaker Samuel Remi-Akinwale, the CEO of Young Manchester.
Sami, a proud Nigerian Mancunian with a passion for basketball, anime, and his community, is a force for social change. Young Manchester supports organisations working with Manchester's youth, and Sami's leadership journey is deeply personal.
In this episode, he talks about navigating his access to education, the challenges of his immigration journey, and how these experiences shaped him into the leader he is today. He also offers valuable advice on overcoming similar obstacles.
Don't miss Sami's inspiring story and practical guidance!
Here's more about the episode:
Follow Young Manchester on social media: @youngmanchester
Learn more about We Belong and find resources made for you: www.webelong.org.uk
Episode music: "Make it" by Micah Stalgic (Produced by Superlative)
Meet rising Manchester music star and We Belong Core Group Member Micah Stalgic! Micah, originally from Nigeria, blends hip-hop, R&B, and trap to create a unique and captivating sound. His music reflects his cultural background while incorporating influences from the UK scene.
Check out Micah Stalgic on Spotify!
Jul 17, 2024
33 min

In this episode, our hosts Milana and Jaya interviewed Kelvyn Quagraine, an enthusiastic Social Media campaigner and activist who shares with us how communities have the power to transform society. Raised in the UK in a Ghanaian household, Kelvyn grew up surrounded by the arts, community and football. Kelvyn believes in the power of brands and storytelling and has found a way to combine his passion for football to help bring community together. Having worked in many charities and projects across the UK including campaigning for #BlackLivesMatter and Fundraising for the Grenfell tragedy, he shares with us his secrets for combining your passion to create social change. Plus!, He pledges his support to our #OOTL Campaigning efforts! You can follow him on Instagram as @KelvynQuagraine. Thank you for listening to the Migrant Moods podcast. If you are affected by any of the content discussed in this podcast or want to get involved with us, we have lots of extra info at your fingertips on our website. www.webelong.org.uk Be sure to follow We Belong on Instagram and Twitter (@webelong19) for general updates on our latest campaigns, gatherings, opportunities and other events. Don’t miss out! This episode features music from our very own Manchester core group member, Tobi (Micah Stalgic). Check it out here: HNVM - Micah Stalgic
Feb 19, 2024
39 min
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