This month, we’re talking with Aimeshinim, our Community and Wellbeing Coordinator who works across several of our programmes for families.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I was born and raised in Hackney by my parents with eleven siblings. Living in such a crowded home was very stressful and made me want a quieter and more peaceful place to live.
When I turned eighteen, I had my first child. I now have three daughters, and we all live in East London. My first job was in retail but, in my early twenties, I decided I wanted something different.
I saw a job advertised at the Jobcentre in Camden for a Prisoner Custody Officer. I worked for Serco in various courts and prisons across London, escorting prisoners. Through that work, I saw a lot and I think it has made me more cautious about people and what they can be capable of in a bad situation.
What is your role at LifeLine?
I’m a Community and Wellbeing Coordinator, working on projects across Redbridge and Barking and Dagenham. I started towards the end of 2024 and I support people with a range of issues—mainly isolation, but generally helping people through complex crisis situations. I also help to support the wider communities we’re working in through various outreach and events.
What skills do you need to do the work you do?
It’s a bit like being a mother—you need to be empathetic, good at listening, well-organised, and able to prioritise quickly.
What do you like most about your job?
It’s let me meet tons of new people from all different walks of life.
What led you to this job?
After working in the prison service, I needed a new challenge in my life. I was browsing vacancies and saw it being advertised, so I just decided to apply. I didn’t have anything to lose at the time.
Can you describe your first day at LifeLine?
It was really good, the people were so friendly. I admit I was still a little bit paranoid towards people from my old role, but that quickly faded.
In your work life, what are you most proud of?
I’ve been helping local residents plan their own projects to support others around them. It’s been amazing seeing the drive they have to improve their community.
What did you learn from the people you worked with in this project?
I’ve learnt that everyone is capable of change, regardless of current circumstance. It’s altered my outlook on life.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I always wanted to open a home for homeless people. I don’t like seeing people suffer.
How would you describe LifeLine and its staff members?
It’s a very welcoming environment and I love it for giving me opportunity to unleash my full potential and make change.
What's been the happiest and saddest days of your life?
The happiest was when I had my daughter. The worst was when I lost my mum.
What word would you use to describe yourself and what word would your friends use to describe you?
I would say I’m ‘interesting’.
I think they would say I’m hard-working.