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.

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