ADEY, 17 from Cardiff has been named as the winner of a prestigious award from The King’s Trust in recognition of her strength in rebuilding her confidence and embracing education after arriving in the UK alone, with limited English and no access to school.
The King’s Trust and TK Maxx & Homesense Awards recognise young people who have succeeded against the odds, improved their chances in life and had a positive impact on their local community. Adey scooped the Delta Air Lines Breakthrough Award, which recognises a young person who has overcome personal barriers to take their very first steps towards achieving their goals.
Adey said: “To anyone who’s struggling, you’re stronger than you think. You won’t know what you can do until you try. We can cope with much more than we realise. Stay strong, stay focused on the future, and carry on even you feel like you can’t.”
Adey faced challenges most could never imagine. Born in Eritrea, she was forced to flee the country at a young age, eventually settling in Ethiopia before once again having to make the dangerous decision to leave. Her journey was long and difficult, filled with uncertainty and hardships before arriving in the UK at 15, alone, where she was placed into care.
She added: “When I arrived in the UK, I didn’t know anyone. I couldn’t go to school at first because of immigration issues and a lack of spaces. I wasn’t allowed to work either, so I felt extremely bored and lonely.
“All I wanted was to go to school and be around people my own age, but for 10 months, I had no routine, no structure, just waiting.”
With no family or friends, adjusting to life in a new country was incredibly difficult, especially with limited English. Determined to build a future for herself, Adey was introduced to The King’s Trust Explore programme by her social worker, a turning point in her life. Through workshops, outdoor activities, and mentoring, she slowly rebuilt her life and developed new skills.
Adey continued: “I was nervous in groups and felt isolated. My English was limited, and I was struggling to adjust but The King’s Trust helped me in ways I never expected.
“I made friends that I’m still in touch with today and I learned how to write a CV and prepare for interviews. I tried gorge walking, which was terrifying at first, but it made me feel strong and proud of myself.
“The King’s Trust programme also motivated me to learn how to swim, something I had always feared.”
Adey is now thriving, attending school full-time for the first time, studying six subjects and preparing to take her English language exams.
She said: “My life has completely changed. I’ve made so many friends at school. Before The King’s Trust, I only had my social worker and carers to talk to, but now I feel confident in conversations. Everyone encouraged me and I felt so supported.”
Adey dreams of a bright future. She hopes to pursue a career in psychology or engineering, making the most of every opportunity that comes her way.
She concluded: “I want to achieve a lot in my life. I want to improve my English even more so that I can go to College and University, and I also want to play professional football!
“My journey hasn’t been easy, I lost everything at one point, so I want to be strong and protect myself. I hope to one day help young people who have been in a similar situation as me.”
Adey’s resilience and determination demonstrate how the right support can empower young people to overcome even the most profound challenges.
On winning the Delta Air Lines Breakthrough Award, Adey said: “When I came to the UK, I didn’t know anyone. This isn’t my first language; this isn’t my country.
“There are people who won’t have to start their life again like I’ve had to, but I’m proud of myself because I stepped out of my comfort zone. In just one year, I’ve won this award, and it feels amazing. It’s given me the confidence to keep pushing.”
Cory Campbell from Delta Air Lines, who presented Adey with her award, said: “A huge congratulations to Adey on winning your award. You should be so proud of your achievements and the positive future you’re creating for yourself. Well done!”
Youth charity The King’s Trust gives young people the skills and confidence to get their lives on track. Three in four young people helped by The King’s Trust in the past five years have moved into work, training or education.
