In what would have once been only a dream, Mohammed Zaman, a survivor of modern slavery, carried the Olympic torch during the Paris Paralympic Games. This moment followed a long-fought battle for his rights in the U.K. finally enabling him to travel. Spanning nearly two decades, Zaman’s journey is marked by years of legal struggles, volunteer work at major sporting events, and has now reached a symbol of his unwavering determination.
A fight for freedom and recognition
Arriving in the U.K. from Bangladesh in 2005, Zaman held a valid work visa and a job at a London restaurant. However, his seemingly promising opportunity took a dark turn as his employer seized his passport, forcing him into grueling work hours with little pay, under the looming threat of deportation. Feeling trapped and helpless, Zaman’s visa expired, leaving him in a vulnerable situation.
Despite managing to escape his exploiters, Zaman faced years of uncertainty as he struggled to resolve his immigration status. Volunteering at major events such as the London Olympics and Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee offered him comfort, purpose, and a sense of community amidst his ongoing legal disputes.
A triumphant symbol
In recognition of his extensive volunteer work, Zaman was nominated to carry the Olympic torch in Paris. Though initially scheduled for last month, his moment of triumph faced an obstacle when he realized his Bangladeshi passport had long expired, causing a delay. With his Leave to Remain finally granted and an emergency travel document in hand, Zaman carried the torch on August 28, symbolizing not only his journey but the relentless struggle for justice faced by survivors of modern slavery.
He shared with Anna O’Neill from the BBC,
“Usually August is the time of year that I feel most sad, because it reminds me of when I arrived in the UK and that my situation remained the same,” he told me as we headed to the French capital.
“But not this year. Everything has changed dramatically. I have my Leave To Remain, I’m about to run with the Olympic torch in Paris, it’s a big honour.”
In Paris, Zaman shared his powerful story with fellow volunteers, deeply moved by his determination and persistence.
Zaman’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the immense challenges faced by survivors of modern slavery and the urgent need for their comprehensive support. His moment in the spotlight carrying the Olympic torch signifies a victory not only for him but for all those relentlessly battling against exploitation and abuse.
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Zaman’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the immense challenges faced by survivors of modern slavery and the urgent need for their comprehensive support. His moment in the spotlight carrying the Olympic torch signifies a victory not only for him but for all those relentlessly battling against exploitation and abuse.
what an inspiring story. the right wing crap that comes from certain political groups has to be stopped. Kier, are you up for this. The labour party must step up to the challenge.
What a wonderfully inspiring story & I’m so pleased there’s a happy outcome for Zaman but his is a special story as he’s an exceptional man. I worry for all of those female/male/children who don’t have his force of nature personality who get lost in a system that seems too look the other way. All of us could do something yet so few want to & that’s just so sad!
This is a beautiful story that warms my heart. I know how many struggles most immigrants go through. I’m glad this has a happy ending. I helped to create Welcoming Network in my hometown of Santa Cruz, California. We are watching the success that comes with helping asylum seekers. You are my heroes!
Da iawn ti, Zaman! (Roughly, ‘Well done you, Zaman!’).