A chance to see something grow...

Yusif Ahmed, client at SIFA Fireside
Yusif has been involved with SIFA Fireside, on and off over, over the past ten years... Six months ago he started volunteering through SIFA's development programme and he hopes to use his voluntary experience, and the skills he's developed by being involved in the Places of Change garden, to move into full-time employment.

About me:
I am a recovering alcoholic. Before entering the SIFA Fireside residential alcohol programme, I was a heavy drinker and getting myself into trouble.

What activities have you been involved with during your time with SIFA?
For the last 6 months I have been volunteering at SIFA Fireside through their Volunteer Development Programme. I have been volunteering at the allotment since July 2009.

What is your personal involvement in the Chelsea Flower Show?
Preparing the potted plants, seeing things develop. I am also building a terrarium for the Show.

Are you involved as a team?  What have you been up to?
I have been working as part of a team at SIFA Fireside, providing breakfast and lunch for the drop-in. At the allotment, I have been working with a three person team preparing the plants in pots from seeds for planting.

What does being involved with the Chelsea Flower Show mean to you and how has it changed your outlook and approach to life?
It is an opportunity for me to build, display and garner interest in terrariums, something I would hope to develop into a business and self-employment.

And what about your colleagues?
It’s a chance to see something grow from seed to maturity on SIFA Fireside’s allotment.

What are you currently working on?
I am concentrating on designing a terrarium for the Chelsea Flower Show.

What are your plans for the future?
I hope to get into full time employment. My time spent as a volunteer should help me in this. I am exploring routes into self-employment.

Do you have any messages for people who might be thinking about getting involved in the Chelsea Flower Show in the future?
Just do it! Who knows what avenues it may open up?