Safa and Abdullahi: Supporting Young Refugees, Immigrants and Asylum Seekers
Alumni Agents Safa and Abdullahi founded One Voice, Many Stories, part of The Agency of Change Bolton (produced by Octagon Theatre)
One Voice, Many Stories is a project that aims to remove the stigma around young refugees, immigrants and asylum seekers through creative workshops and sharing stories. The project also supports them in accessing housing, benefits, legal advice and other vital opportunities.
“At 17, stepping into a space full of passionate, driven changemakers was both exciting and a little intimidating. But from day one, I felt heard, supported, and inspired. Through weekly sessions, mentoring, and collaboration, I developed the idea for my project - something rooted in my values and lived experience. The Agency taught me how to turn an idea into action. It gave me the space to lead with purpose, pitch with confidence, and think long term. I’m grateful to have been surrounded by peers, facilitators, and mentors who believed in us all.” - Safa, Bolton Alumni Agent, Founder of One Voice, Many Stories, and Agency Correspondent Bolton.
After joining The Agency, they both pursue leadership opportunities - Safa is The Agency Correspondent, capturing Agents’ journeys on the ground in Bolton; while Abdullahi takes part in the Social Mobility Business Partnership, gaining hands-on experience across five top organisations in law, finance, and regulation.
Safa and Abdullahi have recently secured funding from the Ashoka scheme to continue their project One Voice, Many Stories. They are planning to create a resource hub online and fully relaunch the programme in 2027.
“The Agency gives people a chance when no one else does. I’ve seen people go from having an idea in their head to actually building something real - a business, a project, a space and that’s not something you see every day. Agents with little experience or confidence found their voice through The Agency. The Agency is about: growth, community, and creating something that matters.” - Safa, Bolton Alumni Agent, Founder of One Voice, Many Stories, and Agency Correspondent Bolton.