MEET Mohammad Shansab

We’re thrilled that Mohammad Shansab has joined our board of trustees for 2026. He brings experience of working with refugees in Pakistan and with other refugee organisations in the UK. 

“My engagement with refugee and asylum issues began through my own personal experience as a refugee. Before arriving in the United Kingdom, I witnessed many of the difficulties and uncertainties that force people to leave their homes and seek safety elsewhere. While living in Pakistan, I also worked as a volunteer with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), which gave me valuable insight into the challenges faced by refugees and displaced people. After arriving in the UK, I volunteered as an interpreter, supporting newly arrived Afghan refugees and helping them communicate with service providers and access essential services. Like many refugees, I also had to navigate a completely new system, learn new ways of life, and rebuild my future from the beginning.

Through this journey, I gained a deep understanding of the challenges that many refugees and asylum seekers face. These challenges often go beyond practical issues such as housing, employment, and language barriers. Many people also struggle with isolation and the emotional impact of leaving behind family, friends, and everything familiar to them.

At the same time, I experienced the positive difference that support, kindness, and community involvement can make. The encouragement I received from individuals and local communities helped me settle, build confidence, and develop a sense of belonging. These experiences inspired me to become actively involved in supporting others who are facing similar challenges.

Over the past year, I have worked with and supported refugee communities through volunteering, community engagement, interpreting, and helping individuals access services and opportunities. I strongly believe that refugees bring valuable skills, experiences, and perspectives to their new communities, and that everyone benefits when people are welcomed with dignity, respect, and understanding.

My personal journey has shaped my commitment to refugee and asylum issues. It has given me both first-hand experience and a strong sense of responsibility to contribute to positive change. I am passionate about helping create communities where refugees and asylum seekers feel safe, valued, and able to achieve their full potential. This commitment continues to motivate my involvement with organisations such as Cheltenham Welcomes Refugees and the wider work of supporting integration and inclusion.”