As a Syrian asylum seeker, Abdul Rahim was not allowed to work in his chosen field of Pharmacy. But since gaining refugee status in October, he has turned his talents to chocolate making and is now savouring the sweet taste of success.
Abdul Rahim is a familiar face at our weekly InterAction Drop-in where he gives up his time freely to volunteer as a caseworker, helping fellow refugees and asylum seekers with advice.
He’s become even more popular lately – thanks to his new venture as a chocolatier! Staff, volunteers and clients have become chocolate taste testers for Abdul’s amazing cocoa creations.
Abdul says: “I left my home to go and study Pharmacy in Pakistan, then the war started in Syria and I couldn’t go back home. I went to Turkey after I graduated as a Pharmacist but when the earthquake happened there last year my wife Reema and I came to seek asylum in the UK.
“As an asylum seeker I was not allowed to work, so my wife and I decided to learn how to make chocolate so we were ready to set up our business when we got our refugee status.”
Abdul was granted leave to remain in October and he and Reema have now launched their hand-made Halal chocolate making business, Choco Crunch on Instagram just in time for the holidays!
The couple have been working hard to fulfill their pre-Christmas orders and feedback has been great. “These are far too delicious,” says one review. “So much delicious chocolate and great service,” says another.
Perhaps people can taste the love that goes into each box. Abdul says:
“We love making chocolate because chocolate makes people happy. In fact our slogan is ‘to make people happy.'”
Abdul has said in the past that he felt ‘instantly welcomed with open arms’ when he first came to Action Foundation.
“Action Foundation really helps refugees and asylum seekers,” he adds. “They really encouraged me with my business – it’s a real community here and staff and volunteers are always happy to taste test my chocolate. I’ve had some great feedback!”
