**Teen Refugee’s Remarkable Journey From Eritrea to a Royal Honour at Buckingham Palace**
A 17-year-old Eritrean refugee, now living in Cardiff, has been honoured at Buckingham Palace this week after an extraordinary journey fleeing conflict, surviving multiple displacements, and beginning a new life in Britain with little support or knowledge of the language. Adey’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination displayed by so many young refugees rebuilding their lives far from home.
Born in Eritrea, Adey’s early years were overshadowed by turmoil and the ever-present threat of violence. As a child, she and her family were compelled to leave their home, first moving to neighbouring Ethiopia in search of safety. However, their stay was short-lived, and Adey would escape adversity yet again, embarking on an arduous journey alone that would eventually lead her to the UK at the age of 16.
Upon arriving in Britain, Adey was placed into care in Cardiff, entering a world wholly unfamiliar to her. Isolated without friends or family nearby and grappling with a new language, she faced the immense challenge of adapting to British life. This portrait of isolation is sadly common among young refugees, yet Adey’s determination to forge a better future quickly became apparent.
Support soon arrived through The King’s Trust Explore programme, a scheme designed to help vulnerable young people reacquire confidence, develop vital life skills, and move forwards towards education or employment. Recommended by her social worker, Adey participated in numerous workshops, outdoor activities, and mentoring sessions. Slowly but surely, she began to find her voice and build new friendships.
Reflecting on her experience, Adey shared, “My life has completely changed. I’ve made so many friends at school. Before taking part in the Trust’s activities, I only had my social worker and carers to talk to, but now I feel confident in conversations and much more optimistic about my future.” She expressed ambitions to continue developing her English language skills, with hopes of attending college and university. Adey also dreams of one day playing professional football, or, if not, pursuing a career in psychology or engineering.
Her inspiring progress was formally recognised on Wednesday at a ceremony in Buckingham Palace, where she received the prestigious ‘Delta Air Lines Breakthrough’ award. The occasion, attended by His Majesty The King and numerous celebrity supporters of The King’s Trust, celebrates the successes of young people who have overcome adversity with the support of the charity.
Presenting the award, Dame Joanna Lumley praised Adey’s tenacity. “Her story is a remarkable example of strength and determination,” said Lumley. “Arriving alone and facing formidable barriers, yet still progressing and striving for a better future is truly impressive. The support of The King’s Trust has clearly helped Adey find her confidence and thrive in her new life.”
Gracious in her victory, Adey expressed a desire to give back to others in future, hoping to offer support to young people facing similar challenges. She offered words of encouragement for anyone struggling: “You’re stronger than you think. We don’t realise what we’re capable of until we try. Stay strong and keep focused on the future, even when it seems impossible.”
As the ceremony concluded, the message was clear: stories like Adey’s are not only about hardship but also about courage, hope, and the power of community support to transform lives. Through her journey, Adey has demonstrated that, even in the face of overwhelming odds, a better future is possible with resilience and the kindness of others.