An aspiring solicitor who was shunned by her peers growing up because of her migrant roots, is challenging negative stereotypes that unjustly label all Albanians as criminals.
Marinela Bouzo left Albania as a youngster with her parents who moved to Greece in the mid-90s to escape the war, but initially faced challenges finding housing and being accepted as immigrants.
The 27-year-old, who came to the UK almost 5 years ago, says she has experienced similar discrimination both in England and during her time in Greece.
Unable to share her negative experiences growing up in Crete with her parents, who were burdened with their own immigration battles, Marinela wants to dispel the stigma associated with being a migrant.
Now working in the immigration department at Manchester-based Barings Law, she wants to help others facing similar challenges.
“It was a very hard time growing up in Greece as people saw me as different,” she said.
“I wouldn’t get invited to things because I was Albanian, which was really distressing. I would sit at home and think why this was happening to me.
“I’ve had this all my life to varying degrees, even in England, and I’m sure other Albanian’s are no different. We’re not all criminals, but sometimes we’re treated like them.”
Last year 12,000 Albanian migrants arrived in the UK on small boats which is more than from any other country.
Hundreds have recently been returned back to their homeland under a Government ‘gold-standard’ deal with the country.
Marinela says the majority of Albanians are hardworking individuals who contribute positively to society.
She wants to fight against modern slavery and exploitation, which she believes often snares vulnerable migrants into criminal activities due to their limited options.
The Manchester resident is also calling for politicians to be mindful of the language they use on the issue, following recent remarks made by the Home Secretary who singled out “Albanian criminals” during a debate on the topic.
She adds: “Whether it’s coming from Suella Braverman or anyone else, it’s important not to generalise an entire group of people based on the actions of a few individuals.
“While on the whole my experiences in England have been positive, I’ve had comments here and there and some people still negatively judge when I tell them my family is Albanian.
“I have encountered individuals as young as 14 and 15 who have arrived in the UK as victims of criminal gangs and promised a brighter future, only to find themselves trapped in the clutches of modern slavery.
“There are also families who strive for a better life, seeking employment and opportunities in the UK because their home country lacks the avenues for growth. Desperate to escape their circumstances, they embark on illegal journeys, risking their lives for a chance at a future they cannot find within their own borders, showing the lengths they are willing to go for their loved ones.”
Having successfully completed her studies in international business at the American College of Greece in Athens, Marinela set her sights on becoming a lawyer after working for major international companies including Emaar in Dubai at the age of 20.
Determined to succeed, she made a bold move to relocate to the United Kingdom where she achieved a 2:1 LLB degree from the Open University all while working full time.
She joined Barings Law in December 2022 where she is currently training for her Solicitor’s Qualifying Exams (SQE).
She adds: “From a young age I would hear the word ‘lawyer’ without fully grasping its significance. Witnessing my father’s relentless search for legal assistance, I instinctively felt that a lawyer could save not only my mother’s life but also mine.
“It’s remarkable that this feeling remains unchanged as I’ve grown up and pursued a career in law. My passion lies in supporting those fighting for their lives and making a positive impact. The notion of lawyers as saviours still drives me, as I strive to improve the lives of others.
“I want to thank Barings Law for giving me the opportunity to do what I love, as I feel welcomed to be part of a team that enables me to make a positive impact.
“If my story can foster more compassion and understanding not only towards Albanians but also towards others in similar circumstances, I would consider it a significant achievement.”
