This blog post was written by Yagoub, the Guest Editor the February 2026 edition of Your Action.
As Guest Editor, I had the opportunity to interview Mary, Refugee Action’s Communications and Engagement Officer.
We talked about her own lived experience, her role and what motivates her.
Mary told me:
”I’ve had a long connection with Refugee Action.
I first met the team in 2019 at a drop-in centre in Liverpool, when I was still seeking asylum.
I was trying to navigate a system that felt overwhelming. Their support stayed with me, and later, when I moved to Manchester, I began volunteering.
What ultimately drew me to this role is my passion for storytelling.
And of course, supporting people with lived experience to share their voices.
Refugee Action’s values align deeply with mine, which made joining the team feel natural.
Can you tell me more about your role?
”My role focuses on supporting people with lived experience to share their stories in a way that feels empowering and true to them.
It’s about creating safe spaces for them, and helping others better understand the realities faced by people seeking safety.
Can you tell me what attracted you to work for Refugee Action?
”Having been through the asylum process myself, I know how vital dignity, hope and clear information are.
The work at Refugee Action can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly meaningful when we see change happen. With that in mind, what is a moment from the past year that you feel most proud of?
One of the moments I’m most proud of is seeing the empowerment of people with lived experience.
I’ve watched it evolve from a space for group members to a consultancy model, where people can contribute their expertise on a professional level.
It’s incredible to see Refugee Action recognising and removing barriers so that lived experience is valued and used to shape real projects.
That shift feels like a true celebration of people’s skills, knowledge, and voices.Involving people with lived experience empowers them, recognises their expertise, and gives hope.
I understand that in your role, you work closely with people going through difficult situations. How does Refugee Action ensure that staff with lived experience feel supported and valued?
”Refugee Action supports staff with lived experience in several ways.
They provide access to services like counselling and peer networks.
Training opportunities are also made available to help staff grow their skills and expertise.
All of this helped me feel supported, valued, and able to contribute confidently.
As a person with lived experience, I’ve seen first-hand how vital it is to involve communities in shaping the support they receive. What is your vision for how Refugee Action can continue to develop and strengthen its work with communities with lived experience?
”Shared leadership - that’s my vision!
I’d like to see those with lived experience involved from the very beginning of strategy development, not just for feedback, so their expertise truly shapes the work.
I also hope there will be ongoing collaboration between Refugee Action and grassroots, community-led organisations, sharing power, resources, and platforms where possible.
Finally, I’d love to see flexible opportunities that empower people with lived experience to grow, through access to education, training, and development, so they can continue to contribute their knowledge and skills confidently.
Mary’s work reminds me that reclaiming our future is possible when working together.