Burnt Oak Broadway – Hitham’s Story

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We would like to thank Network Homes, Barnet Education and Learning Services,  Joe Brennan Training (JBT) and RPPH Limited for introducing Hitham (apprentice plumber), to our residential development site on Burnt Oak Broadway. Hitham is such an inspirational young man – his story below is not only one of incredible courage and determination to overcome adversities, but also one of admiration for his unreserved commitment to achieving his dream.

In 2018,  Hitham was brought to the UK as an 18-year-old asylum seeker. Having been separated from his family during the civil war in Sudan,  he arrived alone, and unable to speak a word of English.

Whilst under the care of Barnet Social Services, he attended the College of North East London studying English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). Once mastered, he stayed with the college and began a plumbing and heating diploma – a dream he’d harboured since fleeing his home.

Working together, Barnet Education and Learning Services and Network Homes introduced Hitham to Joe Brennan Training,  and as part of Network Homes’ s106 employment and training obligations, was placed on our construction site at Burnt Oak Broadway via RPPH Ltd.

Hitham has recently reached level 3 on his apprenticeship (with training provider MIT) and continues to excel.  Working hard on site, he has put his well-earned pay to good use by purchasing extra power tools, in addition to the starter tool kit afforded him by JBT – not only demonstrating his commitment to his trade but making him a stronger asset to his site colleagues. He has also impressively, managed to buy his own car.

Recently speaking to Network Homes, Hitham said

“I’ve always dreamed of going into a trade like plumbing and I was so pleased to have been given the chance to do this apprenticeship. It’s given me real hands-on experience on the job, and it’s been a privilege to work on the Burnt Oak scheme which will provide new homes for people. I’m going to continue to work hard and I’m looking ahead to when I make it as a full-time plumber.”

Now 22 years old, Hitham’s journey to forge a successful career within the construction industry continues. He is still in regular contact with the Red Cross, hoping to one day be reunited with his family.

Thank you to everyone involved and to Hiham for allowing us to share his story.