From Wad Medani to Wales – Marfe's Story  

Before coming to Wales, I lived in Sweden. Life there was calm, organised, and built around routines. Sometimes it felt too quiet, even boring, but it was also where my children were born. In many ways, Sweden became my second home. 

Sudan, however, is my first home. I was born in Wad Medani, a city in the centre of the country, not far from the capital. Life there was full of movement and energy. The heat, the noise, the people everywhere. When I think about Sudan, I remember temperatures of 55 degrees. Then I think of Sweden, standing in minus 25 degrees, and I laugh at how quickly life can change. Everything was different. The weather, the culture, the rhythm of daily life. 

I left Sudan in 2005. It was not an easy decision. The journey was long and difficult, by boat, by car, by train. I left because life had become restrictive, especially for women and girls. I felt unable to speak freely or live as myself. The government made freedom dangerous, and the future felt small. I wanted a different life for myself and my children, one where education and choice were possible. Leaving my large family behind was painful, but I knew I had to go. 

I lived in Sweden for ten years before moving to Wales in 2014. The journey itself was simple, a short flight and a long bus ride from Gatwick, but the change it brought was huge. 

I came to Wales to build a better future. I studied English, took short courses, and volunteered to improve my skills. My children grew up here with me. Although they were born in Sweden, Wales has shaped them too. 

Wales surprised me. After ten years, I can say it feels alive and full of warmth. In many ways, it reminds me more of Sudan than Sweden ever did. People here are kind, friendly, and ready to help. When I first arrived, I received so much support. People guided me step by step, making sure I understood everything. That kindness has stayed with me. 

I have lived in different homes in Cardiff. Now, I finally feel I have found my forever home. It is peaceful, quiet, and right for me. 

I miss my family deeply. My big Sudanese family is not here, and sometimes the loneliness is heavy. But when summer comes, especially in hot years, it reminds me of home and makes me smile. I love the summer. Winter is still a challenge for me. 

I carry dreams with me. I move towards them slowly, but I keep moving. I studied philosophy at Al Neelain University in Sudan and graduated in 2002. In Wales, I want to return to university and continue my education. My biggest dream is to become a councillor, someone who can support people from different backgrounds who arrive feeling lost, as I once did. 

If there is one thing I want people to understand, it is that life can always change. If you follow your dreams, step by step, you can change your path. When you come to a new country, respect its culture while keeping your own. When you do that, respect comes back to you. 

Migration has always shaped Wales. People from many countries have brought positive change. Never think you are too small to make a difference. 

Today, I love my life, even the challenges. The hardest part has not been learning a new culture, but learning myself again. And each time I overcome that, I know I am stronger.