M. was persecuted in Cameroon because of her sexuality. Read her story.

M. is a young woman from Cameroon who arrived in this country a year and a half ago. She was a successful professional and an accomplished athlete in her country until she faced homophobic persecution. She was rejected by her family, who thought she was possessed. Her mother, however, was supportive and, for that reason, experienced problems with the rest of the family. Although she was doing well professionally, M. was subject to constant threats and intimidation from the police and was held in police custody where she suffered cruel and inhuman treatment. 
​
As a result, she developed serious problems with her physical and mental health. She decided to come to London to seek asylum. She first came to the Day Centre for advice on practical issues, and joined our art group. Whilst using our art materials, she explained how she was suffering extremes of loneliness, despair and uncertainty about her future. The sharing of these fearful memories with us at the Southwark Day Centre helped her gain strength and she soon became more confident. M. comes across as an incredibly resilient woman. Always smiling, she has made good friends everywhere she has stayed. Her English is improving rapidly. She is currently in college, studying to become a nurse, working very hard to be able ‘to take care of other people'.

---