Meet our Engage London team in Brussels. Here’s Charlie Tshibangu. Interview by Favour Ekengwu, Naomi Gahie and Rahmin Amin
Charlie Tshibangu (c) Hugh Gary Photography
Charlie, 23, was looking for employment when this interview was done but has already found a warehouse job.
Q: Where do you live?
I’m from the Congo. I came to London when I was eight. It was weird because I was put into foster care with a Jamaican family. We (Charlie and his siblings) weren’t allowed to speak French. It was difficult.
Q: How come you’re involved in the Pilion Trust?
My friend was here, Melvin, he brought me here in 2016. I got along with Savvas so I get invited. And he helps me with food if I have no food in the house.
Q: What are your interests?
Football. From 16-18 and a half I used to play reserves for Boreham Wood. I was a centre back so I played in defence. I got realistic, I didn’t think I’d make it. It’s like the lottery, not everyone makes it.
Q: It’s the World Cup how will you concentrate?
I will do my work but whenever there’s a break then I will want to watch it. I just love football – I like all the teams. I don’t think Brussels will win. Maybe England!
Q: Do you like live football?
I used to work at Arsenal on match days. Every time I watched I couldn’t stop smiling.
Q: What are you expecting from Brussels’ summer school?
Not sure yet.
- Engage Europe is running a summer school from 24-28 June.
