Having previously been an ALN (Additional Learning Needs) teacher in Syria, Zaina was keen to continue her career in the UK, but was initially unable to start studying until she was granted asylum.

While waiting to begin her Masters at the University of South Wales, she decided to build on other skills, taking courses in British Sign Language, creative writing, business interpretation and even a beginners’ Welsh language course. She also worked as an interpreter for legal firms, helping Arabic speakers gain access to legal advice to grant their status to stay in the UK.

While studying, Zaina worked as an intern at the British Red Cross, on its VOICES network – a collective of ambassadors who advocate on issues affecting refugees and people seeking asylum.

Through her internship with VOICES, Zaina learned the techniques of making a podcast – including using the microphones, recording, coming up with ideas – and created The Kind Place – a podcast series sharing the experiences of people seeking refuge in the UK. The podcast won the Grassroots award at the 2021 Audio Production Awards, which celebrate podcast, radio and audiobook production skills.

Zaina completed her Masters degree in 2022 and now works at the City of Sanctuary alongside Adult Learning Wales.