In 2012, Alejandra made the difficult decision to leave her home country for personal reasons. Arriving in the UK marked the beginning of a new chapter, but this was not without its challenges.
“I faced difficulties in this country,” she explains. “I tried to find my own way to retake my professional ambitions. I faced the uncertainty of adapting to a new culture and social system while building a new support network. Overcoming language barriers added further obstacles.”
Determined to rebuild her path in law, Alejandra sought opportunities that would allow her to utilize her full set of skills. Luckily that opportunity came through volunteering. Encouraged by a friend, she discovered the Indo-American Refugee and Migrant Organisation (IRMO), a community-based organisation supporting Latin American migrants and refugees in Brixton.
“I felt grateful to discover an organisation so committed to supporting and empowering the Latin American community with dignity, empathy, and respect—values that resonate strongly with me as a migrant woman” she says.
In 2023, Alejandra took her first step into the organisation as a volunteer.
“They generously let me in, and I started my volunteering as a bilingual receptionistand community interpreter for around seven months.”
This initial role allowed her to reconnect with her community and regain confidence in a new country.
“Everything was new for me at that moment. It was really exciting to reconnect with mycommunity as a Latin American woman and migrant, it enabled me to develop a deeper understanding of the social, cultural, and practical realities affectingthe migrant community.”
Driven by curiosity and a desire to expand her knowledge, Alejandra transitioned into a more specialised role within the organisation.
“Then I changed to the immigration area. I worked there as a volunteer, as an immigration assistant volunteer.”
Although immigration law was unfamiliar territory, Alejandra quickly discovered a passion for it.
“Immigration law—it was totally new for me. But I said, ‘Oh, I like it, I love it. I want to go after that.’ I encountered individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including issues related to their legal status, difficulties accessing essential services, and the complexities of navigating an unfamiliar legal system.”
What drew her most was the human connection at the heart of the work.
“This includes direct contact with people. I love to establish interpersonal interactions. I love to build positive relationships with the community.”
Over time, her dedication and growth led to her current position as an Immigration Trainee Adviser where she is undertaking steps towards becoming IAA registered.
Her development has been supported by a wide range of learning opportunities, including training sessions, study groups, and professional supervision provided by the Migrant Justice Greater London (MJGL) Programme.
“I receive supervision from Asylum Aid, this is valuable extra help. They guide us in delivering advice safely, ensuring our work meets professional standards and follows proper procedures.”
Reflecting on her journey, Alejandra emphasizes the importance of the resources offered by the MJGL Programme.
“All of them contribute to my preparation [for the IAA exams]. I found all of them important. The external support I receive, is a great source of support, I really appreciate it!
Like many entering the field, Alejandra initially found immigration law complex and intimidating.
“It was difficult for me to understand the complexity of the legislation, immigration rules, immigration law… at first I felt intimidated.”
However, with persistence and support, her confidence has grown significantly.
“Now it’s different. I feel, ‘OK, I can do it.’”
Today, Alejandra is motivated not only by her personal journey but also by her long-term vision. Her ambition is clear:
“My plan in the future is to become a qualified and registered immigration adviser, providing advice of the highest quality. I also see myself helping to train others one day. There are so many people in my community with the experience and passion to succeed, who would greatly benefit from the opportunity to grow and develop in this field.”
The support offered by the MJGL Programme has allowed Alejandra to rebuild her career in London and actively contribute to the Latin American community. Her journey highlights the power of IAA registration in providing a career path, transforming a community organization and offering high quality advice where it is needed most.