Priya’s Story: Finding Her Voice Through Sound and Community

When Priya arrived in the UK from Sri Lanka in September 2022, she felt completely alone. “I was isolated and unsure of my next steps,” she recalls. Having come from a strong charity background - her mother still works in the sector back home - Priya had always been passionate about supporting others. But the transition to life in the UK, particularly studying for a Master’s degree in Business at Northumbria University, was harder than she expected.

“University was very academic and lacked practical examples. I often struggled to connect what I was learning with real-world experience,” she said.

Everything began to change when she discovered the Angelou Centre in Newcastle. It was there she first heard about FIRST and decided to enrol on the Level 1 Business Course during her final semester of university.

“It was amazing. Julianne, our tutor, changed my life,” Priya said. “For the first time since moving to the UK, I felt like part of a community. The course offered real-life examples that I could apply to both my studies and future plans.”

Inspired by her experience, Priya went on to complete the Level 2 Business Course - this time alongside her husband, a talented music composer.

“I enjoyed every part of it. Again, it was the practical side that stood out. Unlike university, these courses connected theory to reality,” she explained. “Before, I wasn’t sure which direction to take, but now I feel focused and motivated.”

The couple are now combining their skills to develop a Community Interest Company (CIC) centred around sound healing and music therapy. “It’s not about theory - it’s about connection,” Priya said. “Sometimes, a single smile or sound can change someone’s life.”

Their project blends Priya’s charitable roots with her husband’s creative expertise. Together, they aim to offer a safe and welcoming space where people can experience sound healing, attend open mic nights and take part in workshops for aspiring musicians.

Their YouTube channel is already sharing some of these calming sounds, and Priya is currently completing FIRST’s new, pre-recorded Advanced Business course - exclusive to select learners - to further prepare for launching her CIC.

“Thanks to FIRST, I now have the confidence to build new connections and bring our vision to life,” she said. “The support has been incredible.”