By Roheema Yasmin, Future Pupil Barrister and LWC Head of EDI
In interview with Saeed Atcha MBE DL
There is no doubt that in writing this piece I was faced with the initial difficulties of how I would like to represent the ‘South Asian care experience.’ However, upon reflection of my network, I immediately thought of Saeed Atcha MBE DL. I have had the pleasure of knowing Saeed since my final year of university where I first learned about his care-experiences at the University of Manchester.
What I found most inspiring about Saeed is his strength in sharing his story, particularly belonging to a South Asian background and how he continues to be a fierce inspiration and role model for those in our community.
Can you introduce yourself and what you are currently doing?
I am Saeed Atcha MBE DL, and I am passionate about supporting young people to achieve their potential. As the CEO of Youth Leads UK, a charity I set up at the age of 15, I support young people in getting involved in volunteering, gaining skills, and taking on leadership opportunities. Alongside this, I work with various organisations as a Trustee or Advisor and serve as a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester, using my experiences to advocate for change and create opportunities for others.
Can you tell us about your early experiences of your childhood, particularly having a South Asian background?
Growing up in Bolton, I often felt like I was straddling multiple worlds - my South Asian roots at home and a very different culture outside. Life was not always straightforward, especially as someone who spent time in care and around the ‘bad crowd.’ I often felt like I had to balance my cultural identity with the world around me, which did not always fully understand or appreciate my background. Being care-experienced meant facing challenges that made me grow up quickly because I had no other choice. I longed for stability and attention which is why I do what I do, to let young people know that their background is their superpower.
How has this shaped you?
My upbringing and life experiences have shaped me into someone who values resilience, empathy, and community. Growing up in care taught me the importance of perseverance and adaptability, while my South Asian heritage instilled pride in my identity and a sense of responsibility for others. Together, these influences gave me a unique perspective on life, reminding me that challenges are not barriers but stepping stones. They have driven my work in the charitable sector, where I focus on providing young people with the opportunities to succeed, just as I was supported to overcome my own difficulties.
What have you learned from these experiences?
No matter where you start in life, your determination and support network can make all the difference. Your struggles can become your strengths. I have also learned how vital it is to stay hopeful and to see every setback as a chance to learn and grow. These lessons have shaped how I approach challenges and how I help others navigate theirs.
What one piece of advice would you give to those from care-experienced backgrounds and South Asian identities?
Your story is your strength. Embrace the richness of your identity, even when it feels like the world does not fully understand it. Use the challenges you have faced to fuel your ambitions and trust that your perspective has value. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, and do not shy away from asking for help when you need it. Most importantly, believe in your ability to create change for yourself and others - your background and experiences are not limitations, but which make you uniquely powerful.
Thank you Saeed for being a part of this important conversation and building a positive influence within the care-experienced community.
If any of our readers resonate with this story and would like to reach out, please contact us via our 'Contact Us' form.
To contact author Roheema directly, please visit her LinkedIn profile.
To contact Saeed directly, please visit his LinkedIn profile.
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