Khaled Maged Al Mohallal came to the UK after fleeing the devastation from the Assad regime in Syria in 2012, where he sought refuge in Lebanon. Before Khaled’s father encouraged him to leave the country, he studied at veterinary college, but was unable to complete his degree due to the war, which has left thousands of families displaced seeking refuge across Europe.

Despite the emotional turmoil after fleeing the war-torn country, he started his new chapter in Kent. Choosing to study a new degree with a business focus, as he had previously run his own company in Lebannon.

Alongside his role as a devoted father and husband, Khaled is now studying Business Management at Canterbury Christ Church University, having completed the University’s International Foundation Programme. He is also an interpreter for Arabic speakers and refugees at Clear Voice.

Khaled is going into his final year in September and explains how his transition from studying a degree at veterinary college In Syria has been a positive one, but with differences.

“I have just completed three years at Canterbury Christ Church University, which has been fantastic,” he said.

“Universities in the UK are a lot different compared with Syrian Universities. Lecturers and professors here at Christ Church are so helpful. They do not consider your ethnicity or religion when they mark your work.”

“I’ve felt supported here at the University and the course has helped me to understand how businesses are managed in the UK – they are managed and controlled very differently compared to the Middle East.”

“My favourite part of the programme has been the project management side as well as developing innovation skills and enterprise management.”

“The education system is generally not as healthy in Syria in relation to the government and the Assad regime – if the student doesn’t support the regime they will suffer.”

“I did my first degree in Syria and never lost my passion. I came back to university with three children and my wife, and I’m so glad I could continue that dream, and who knows – maybe even undertake a Master's degree.”

Alongside his busy schedule being a parent and studying for his degree, Khaled also works at Clear Voice.

“Working for Clear Voice has helped me tremendously – especially with the flexibility of the role.

“I am a father of three girls and husband to my wife, and I have to manage my duty as a husband, my studies at Christ Church and my work, Clear Voice meets my busy schedule. I only need my phone and I can start working whenever and wherever.”

Clear Voice is a social enterprise interpreting service, whose profits are donated to Migrant Help, their parent charity, supporting the work with victims of displacement and exploitation.