YAHYAS Hub (Young Adults Help Young Asylum Seekers) is a small charity supporting unaccompanied young people aged 16–25 who are seeking asylum or have refugee status across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
We spoke to Sabina from YAHYAS Hub to learn more about their work.
“We run group activities that bring young people together with local young adults in a friendly, welcoming environment. Through events and workshops, participants build social and interpersonal skills, reduce isolation and boredom, and gain support to improve employability once they receive a positive decision on their refugee status.
We were co-founded by two sisters from Iran, Shila and Shiva. Inspired by their father, Dr Yahya Shasavari, who worked on the front line of the Iran–Iraq war helping young people rebuild their lives, they set out to support displaced youth. Shila, now a teacher in Norway, began pairing asylum seekers in her class with peers for support. Shiva brought the idea to Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, creating a safe, welcoming space where young people can connect, support one another, build skills, and prepare for their bright futures.”
What impact has YAHYAS Hub had?
“While all our activities support language learning, we recently ran our first beginner ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) course, accredited by North East Scotland College and taught by a certified teacher. We organised it after Aberdeen social services asked for help supporting new arrivals who had little English. Nine of the students graduated to the next ESOL level with guaranteed places at the college.
Our various workshops cover creative and practical skills, but also build confidence, trust, and opportunities to practice English in real-life settings. Many participants grow from shy to confident, helping peers and contributing to planning and feedback.”
Omar, 18, reflected on the close bonds formed through YAHYAS Hub:
“You are my family. We have a good time, we laugh, you support me.”
Ali, 17, shared the impact of attending one of YAHYAS’s Christmas events:
“The Christmas party was truly special, a night filled with laughter, light and peace. Spending it with good friends made it even more meaningful, a memory that will last forever.”
Sahar Abdulla, a freelance educator and community translator, described her experience supporting YAHYAS Hub:
“Shiva and her remarkable team at YAHYAS Hub embody a rare kind of dedication – it is a deeply human, heart-led commitment to justice and belonging. It’s a privilege to stand alongside such integrity-driven community builders.”
What’s next for YAHYAS Hub?
“We will continue offering beginner ESOL classes for newcomers, building on the success of our small groups and the interest we have received from social workers across the region. We also plan to start a language club where young people of all English levels can practise speaking and gain confidence.
We are planning two creative workshops that will end with exhibitions. One will focus on fashion upcycling, and the other will be a photography project where young people can tell their own stories through images.
Our long-term goal is to have our own space, a familiar and welcoming environment where we can run regular activities such as weekly clubs, workshops, and celebrations like Christmas and Nowruz.
If you would like to stay updated on our work, you can visit our website or follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.”
