Meet the Team

Lodging Scheme Lead

Neşe grew up in North Eastern Turkey, and moved to the UK when she was 17. Neşe understands the complexities of moving to another country when you don't understand the obvious and unspoken rules of culture. She has worked with refugees and asylum seekers since 2011 in Nottingham, London and Bristol. She is involved in ECC, a church Bristol, which she attends with her husband and two daughters.

Director of Operations

Michelle manages our operations and has worked in the Christian charity sector for 12 years, with particular interest and travel to the middle east/north Africa. An immigrant herself, she believes that supporting those who are starting their lives in a new country is invaluable and helps give refugees the best possible chance to succeed. Michelle and her husband attend Christchurch in Newport. 

Director of Partnerships & Communication

Jess joined our team in February 2023 and is covering the Director role for Rachel's adoption leave. Currently based in Nottingham, Jess grew up in the Middle East and went on to study Middle Eastern Studies at SOAS, London. Coming with 5 years experience in the international charity sector, Jess is looking forward to growing RWH base in Bristol and helping those with refugee status find long-term, supportive accommodation.

Director of Strategic Relations

Rachael is our founding director and has worked and volunteered in the refugee sector in Bristol for 13 years and is currently operations director for Bristol Hospitality Network. She's also hosted many destitute asylum seekers and is currently a landlord of a refugee lodger with her husband and 2 year old son. She's also involved in ECFC,  a church in Easton and incarnational ministry in Asia through 'Servants'.  

Mariya Bykova

Resettlement Manager

Mariya has recently graduated with a law degree and is passionate about helping families and refugees. She has volunteered in various places, helping people in difficult circumstances. Mariya was born in Ukraine and moved to the UK at a young age and has first-hand experience in matters of immigration and starting a new life abroad, appreciating its challenges. She has been affected by the situation in Ukraine. She is active in her community, helping people to feel safe and welcoming them in the UK. She also helps with a charity called ‘Hope for Ukraine’ which was founded in her church.