Former refugees recognised for award winning community initiative

Two former refugees have been awarded honorary degrees from the University of Wolverhampton for their community initiative.

Mohamed Mustafa and Arten Llazari have been awarded Honorary Doctorates in Science in recognition of their work through their charity, The Refugee and Migrant Centre, and their dedication to supporting migrants by removing barriers to their integration.

Mohamed now lives with his wife and children in Wolverhampton after leaving Iraq.  He co-founded the RMC which is now an award-winning charity and the biggest provider of its services in the region.

An alumni of the University, Mohamed achieved a Higher National Diploma in Building Studies and a degree in Civil Engineering.

He said:  "It is a privilege to serve my community and I feel that work is all worth it just to know that someone is safe and has hope."

Arten was born in Albania and arrived in the UK in 1999.  He is the CEO of the RMC which, under his leadership has developed into an award-winning charity and the biggest provider of its services in the region.

Arten is committed to social justice and has served as a trustee of many charities.  He has a Humanities degree and is fluent in several languages.

He said: "I am humbled to receive this honorary doctorate from the University of Wolverhampton in recognition of my work at RMC and the charity sector."

Honorary awards are presented by the University of Wolverhampton to people who have made a significant contribution to their field of expertise. 

The University's graduation ceremonies take place at the Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton, from Thursday 12th September to Friday 20th September 2019.

For information about courses to study at the University visit the website.

Picture caption: Arten, left and Mohamed, right.

ENDS