Member Success Stories
“ACCI will alwaysbe home. It is a communitythat stood beside me duringmy darkest days.”
Jeovers from Cameroon shares his journey of fleeing persecution and how ACCI’s holistic support helped him rebuild his life in the UK.
Service member, Jeovers Achalle, arrived in the UK seeking safety after experiencing severetrauma in his home country. He shares his story to inspire hope and highlight the life-changing impact of ommunity support.
Meet Jeovers
A Father,
An Inspiration
Interview with Jeovers
Q1. Where did it all begin?
I was born on April 7, 1992, in Cameroon. I worked as a subsea engineer and had a promising future ahead of me. However, my family’s NGO, which supported people affected by war, was misinterpreted by the government. This led to persecution, violence and devastating consequences for my family.
In 2025, I was forced to flee my country. Leaving everything behind was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do. I arrived in the UK carrying deep trauma, grief, and fear for my safety.
Q2. When did you realise you needed help?
When I arrived in the UK, my mental health deteriorated quickly. I experienced severe depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I suffered from vivid nightmares and auditory hallucinations, which made daily life extremely difficult.
Although my faith remained a strong protective factor, I knew I needed professional and community support to survive and rebuild my life.
Q3. ACCI’s Whole-Person Support?
I was referred to African Caribbean Community Initiative (ACCI) in March 2023. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and accepted.
At ACCI, I received; Individual counselling. Support through a hearing, Voices group, Life coaching, Advocacy support, Community activities including football and cycling, Bible study and book club sessions
These activities gave me structure, connection, and purpose. Being part of a community helped reduce my isolation and reminded me that I was not alone.
Alongside this, I was medically diagnosed with PTSD and depression. My treatment included carefully monitored medication, supported by ongoing mental health care. ACCI also advocated for me and helped me navigate the asylum system and adjust to life in the UK.
Q4. What impact has ACCI had on your life?
The impact has been transformational. With ACCI’s support, I began to regain stability and confidence.
In October 2025, my asylum was granted. This was a major turning point in my life. It gave me security and allowed me to start planning for the future again.
I am now exploring employment opportunities and rebuilding my relationship with my wife and daughter, who mean everything to me.
ACCI gave me hope when I had lost almost everything.
Q5. What does ACCI mean to you now?
I still attend ACCI regularly. For me, ACCI will always be home. It is more than a service, it is a community that stood beside me during my darkest days.
Q6. What advice would you give to others facing similar challenges?
Do not isolate yourself. Seek help and accept support when it is offered. Healing takes time, but with the right people around you, recovery is possible.