"I used to live in Syria, having spent my childhood in my beloved beautiful city of Aleppo. My childhood memories are of joyful moments, innocent laughs and the loving warmth of my friends and family.

Full of hope and motivation, I studied hard to complete my school education, looking forward to achieving my dreams in Syria. Unfortunately, as fate would have it, hopes were shattered, goals became unattainable and dreams turned into despair with my worries of what was coming next.

As the war and destruction continued, I left my beloved Syria with some family and friends. We ended up in Lebanon, where we experienced alienation, isolation and suffered hardship. Our only dream was to live a simple, peaceful life in a place where we can pursue our simple goals. That's how we ended up in the UK.

I faced lots of difficulties at the beginning, from language barriers to a very different set of values and culture. At first I did not feel accepted by people, I felt like people treated me as a stranger, a distant outsider.

I decided to face these challenges head on. I picked up the language, pushed myself to use English as much as possible in my everyday life. Against all odds, I managed to get a job. I pushed myself hard and never stopped trying, striving to achieve my goals and bring value to my community.

All I can say is that I'm very proud of myself now! I still have lots of dreams to achieve and I will keep trying. I want to advise every woman that if you want to achieve your goals you have to be patient and strong. Do not despair no matter what challenges you face.

Finally, I would like to ask from anyone who reads this to send me words of encouragement that will empower and motivate me to keep going on my journey of achieving my dreams."