Eku_building

Eku

Music was very important to my upbringing in Sierra Leone. They would say, ‘Eku I want you to sing for us’.

I love the song ‘Something inside so strong’ because it applies to anyone who is marginalised.

When I flew over London, from Sierra Leone via Nigeria, I thought I had come to the wrong place.

I was expecting London to be all marble and gold, not grey and cold.

When I got to Heathrow airport, I thought the Queen would come and welcome me!

But everyone was so busy, not friendly like my Freetown in Sierra Leone.

It was really cold in London and I couldn’t pick up the language for example: ‘Alright mate!’

When I got on the tube from Heathrow everyone was behind newspapers and didn’t talk at all.

I came with love in my heart for everyone, but some people were not at all friendly to me. I had to be so strong

I was orphaned at an early age. I left Africa for a better life.

Employment was difficult at first, but I felt hopeful that things would improve and I could help my brothers and sisters back home.

I am part of many groups in Newham. I enjoy being with people and supporting them if I can.

I also run clubs that bring people together from different cultures to share food, activities and music.

I have recently started to volunteer in Forest gate Community Garden.

Home is about friendship

Home is when we eat food together on one big plate.

Home means adopted Mum and dad

Home means love from neighbours

Home means school where you can learn