Likewise represented at the UN: Rif’s journey from Burngreave to the United Nations
This past month Rif, one of our staff member who works in the Recovery Hub, attended the UN, representing both Likewise and the wider recovery community. Alongside Rif’s work with Likewise, she is an active campaigner, and is part of Sheffield Inclusive Recovery Cities campaign council, Recovery Women’s network group SWIPE and is passionate about raising awareness of recovery in global majority communities Sheffield. Rif attended the UN to promote to launch the Recovery Pathways book and also spoke on a panel about recovery and drugs and alcohol in Sheffield.
Here is how she found attending the UN:
Attending the United Nations to represent Sheffield Recovery Communities and SWIPE was an experience that I will cherish forever. The opportunity to meet individuals who share the same interests and passions as me was both inspiring and empowering. I was more than grateful for Tracey Ford for nominating and giving me this opportunity of a lifetime.
From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the grandeur of the UN headquarters. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of purpose and global unity. As I walked through the halls, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of pride and responsibility. I was here to represent not just my community, but also the countless individuals who are on their journey to recovery.
From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the grandeur of the UN headquarters. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of purpose and global unity. As I walked through the halls, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of pride and responsibility. I was here to represent not just my community, but also the countless individuals who are on their journey to recovery.
The conference itself was a melting pot of ideas and perspectives. I had the privilege of meeting people from all over the world, each with their own unique stories and experiences. It was heartening to see how many people are dedicated to the cause of recovery and support. We shared our successes, challenges, and strategies, learning from each other and growing together.
One of the highlights of the event was the Launch of the Recovery pathways book which I was proud of being part, as this book was written by women in the UK, I was particularly moved by the stories of resilience and transformation shared by tone of the individuals who had contributed to the book, it was a testament to the power of community and support in overcoming adversity. It was a reminder that recovery is not just about overcoming addiction, but also about rebuilding lives and fostering hope.
Another memorable moment was the networking session. It was incredible to connect with like-minded individuals who are as passionate about recovery as I am including Asia Ashraf a Mental Health Disorders and Addiction Specialist from Pakistan who has chosen to visit Sheffield whilst touring the UK promoting gender-sensitive treatment and recovery pathways for Asian women. The sense of camaraderie and mutual support was palpable, and I left the session feeling more motivated than ever and very excited to collaborate with Asia this year.
Representing Sheffield Recovery Communities, Sheffield Inclusive Recovery City and SWIPE at the United Nations was a profound experience. It reinforced my belief in the importance of community-based support and the need for continued advocacy and innovation in the field of recovery. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this event and look forward to applying the insights and connections I gained to further our mission.
In conclusion, my time at the United Nations was not just an opportunity to represent my community, but also a chance to be part of a local and global movement towards recovery and support. I am excited about the future and the possibilities that lie ahead. Together, we can make a difference and help more individuals on their journey to recovery.
