I was born into a Muslim family in Iran. In 1998, I bought tickets for three Iranian football matches during the World Cup in France, using this as an opportunity to leave Iran in search of a better life. While in France, I asked some friends for help to stay in Europe. 

First, I sought political asylum in Germany, but I didn’t know enough about politics to make it through the interview. My case was rejected and, back in France, after a few nights on the streets, I saw a lorry at a petrol station. Something clicked. I left my rucksack behind and grabbed hold of the bars underneath, travelling all the way to England underneath the lorry. 

When I arrived in England, I decided to seek asylum as a persecuted Christian. I even joined a Christian Bible school in Birmingham and was granted free accommodation. I was a great student and blended into the Christian activities of prayer, singing and Bible study.

As a Muslim, I had learned about God and performed my religious duties, but I never knew if God was pleased with my deeds or if I was good enough to go to heaven. I was very aware of the sins in my heart like lying, jealousy, lust and stealing. I was so unhappy, deeply lonely and felt like I had no real identity. 

During my time at the Bible school, I began reading the Bible in Farsi with the help of other Iranian Christians, and Jesus’ character changed me. One week in September 2000, everything I read in the Bible pointed back to themes of truth, righteousness and Jesus’ invitation to give peace to sinners. I read the verse in John where Jesus says: “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (8:32). I wanted that freedom so badly.