- Ethiopia UK living
Trhas Tesfay is not just a cyclist but a beacon of hope and resilience for many. Born and raised in Tigray, Ethiopia, Trhas is an elite pro-cyclist who stands out among the front cyclists in the Rapha Lincoln Grand Prix. What makes her story unique is that she competed while living in an asylum seeker hotel on less than £10 a week. Her journey from Ethiopia to the UK, and her achievements in the world of cycling, offer a compelling story of determination, passion, and perseverance.
Early Life and Challenges
Trhas Teklehaimanot Tesfay was born in Tigray, Ethiopia, on January 5, 2002. She began cycling when she was 13 years old and has achieved success in numerous competitions, including the African Continental Championships and the national championships of Ethiopia.
During the recent Ethiopian civil war, Trhas sought asylum in the UK to escape the conflict. For a migrant fleeing a war zone, leading a normal life can be difficult. The emotional and psychological trauma from such experiences can leave a lasting impact. Rising from such challenges and achieving success is a remarkable story, showcasing the strength of the human spirit.
Seeking Asylum in the UK
The prolonged conflict in western Tigray forced Trhas to seek asylum in the UK last year. The Home Office placed her in a west London hotel for asylum seekers, where she survives on less than £10 a week. Her racing bike is stored in the hotel’s laundry room, and she receives £8.86 a week for essential expenses.
Living conditions in the asylum seeker hotel are far from ideal. Trhas shares a small room with two other women and struggles with the provided food, which often makes her sick. Despite these challenges, her passion for cycling remains a beacon of hope. She trains for six to six and a half hours a day, six days a week, using cycling as a way to momentarily escape her troubles and manage her anxiety.
Preparing for RideLondon
Trhas competed at the front of RideLondon between May 24-26, alongside fellow elite athletes. However, the difficulties she faces as an asylum seeker mean she cannot compete on an equal footing. Hunger and lack of proper nutrition hinder her training, and the limited financial support makes it challenging to buy the food and supplements she needs.
Kimberley Coats, the chief executive of Team Africa Rising, and the asylum seeker charity West London Welcome have been instrumental in supporting Trhas. They are working within the constraints of the UK asylum system to provide her with the necessary resources, including a virtual trainer for her cycling practice.
What the Future Holds For Trhas
Despite the adversities, Trhas’s spirit remains unbroken. She is determined to succeed and reach her ultimate dream of competing in the Tour de France. Her story is not just about her talent and achievements, but also about her indomitable will to overcome the harsh realities of being an asylum seeker.
Trhas Tesfay’s journey is a testament to her resilience and determination. While she faces numerous challenges as an asylum seeker in the UK, her unwavering dedication to cycling and her dreams of competing on the world stage continue to drive her forward. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Keep checking back here on MyEthiopia as we follow her story.
