From Jamaica to Sheffield: My Parents’ Journey of Resilience and Strength

How my parents’ courage and love shaped my approach to mental health and well-being.

My parents’ journey from Jamaica to the UK involves resilience, sacrifice, and love. Like many from the Windrush Generation, they sought a better life, and I carry with me their strength in the face of adversity every day.

Hard Work and Building a Life

My dad was always employed and rarely experienced unemployment. He began his career as a brickmaker and later became a bus conductor and driver. He worked hard to provide for our family and ensure we were supported despite the challenges of moving to a new country. After returning to Jamaica later in life, he sadly passed away in 2019.

My mum, however, was the true inspiration behind my approach to work and life. She worked night shifts, ensuring she could care for us during the day, always ensuring we had food on the table and a roof over our heads. Her sacrifices were immense, and she often talked about how she was overlooked for jobs and did not reach the stage in her career that she had hoped for. Despite these challenges, she remained resilient. Eventually, she joined my dad in the UK via London, and her dedication to us was unwavering. She taught me the importance of perseverance and hard work, showing me that no matter the struggle, you can always find a way to provide for your family and keep moving forward.

I often wondered why we ended up in Sheffield, and the answer lay with my dad. He came to the UK with his brothers and sister, part of the Windrush Generation, searching for opportunity. Sheffield became home, and together, they built a life here. My mum followed later, and these decisions shaped the course of our family’s journey.

Discrimination and Protection

Growing up, my parents didn’t talk much about the discrimination they faced. They rarely mentioned the challenges they encountered, and it wasn’t until later in life—through my own experiences and learning about the stories of others from their generation—that I started to understand what they and many others endured.

From my own life journey, I learned about the racial prejudice common in their time. People from their generation were often denied housing and opportunities simply because of their skin colour. For instance, I later discovered that many were turned away from rental properties, even after being assured over the phone that a flat was available. They would arrive only to be told, “No Blacks.”

My parents, like so many others, likely faced these challenges, but they never shared these painful experiences with me, my brother, or my sister. I believe they wanted to shield us from the harsh realities of discrimination. Instead, they focused on pushing us toward education and a brighter future. My mum often said, “They may discriminate against you because of the colour of your skin, but they can’t take away what’s in your head.” That message stayed with me, teaching me that resilience isn’t just about enduring hardship—it’s about thriving despite it.

Love of Music, Faith, and Community

Despite their difficulties, my parents always made room for joy and community. Music was a constant presence in our home—from the sounds of Bob Marley and the beats of soca and calypso to my mum’s love for artists like Elvis, Jim Reeves, and Cliff Richard. The house was filled with music, creating an uplifting atmosphere. Family gatherings often included laughter, dancing, and music, bringing everyone together to celebrate life and culture.

Faith also played an essential role in our upbringing. We went to church every Sunday, attended Sunday school, and were encouraged to join cubs and scouts, which gave us a strong sense of discipline and values. These activities helped us stay connected to our faith and provided a foundation of stability even when times were tough.

Music and faith were more than just background noise or routines—they were a way to stay connected to our roots, bring joy into our lives, and build a sense of togetherness. These influences remain a part of who I am today, reminding me that no matter how difficult life gets, there is always room for celebration and positivity.

Mental Resilience: Forgiving and Moving Forward

One of the most important lessons my parents taught me was the value of mental resilience. They didn’t have access to the mental health resources we advocate for today—no therapists or wellness programs to guide them. Instead, they relied on their faith, community, and each other.

Reflecting on their journey, I’ve realised that part of resilience involves learning to forgive. Many of my peers, particularly those from the baby boomer generation, carry emotional scars from the tough love their parents gave them, shaped by the hardships of migration. It’s challenging to let go of these burdens, but I’ve understood that our parents did their best with their knowledge and resources.

Letting go of the trauma and forgiving them for the ways they may have passed down their pain is essential for moving forward. It’s no surprise that many mental health challenges today are connected to the experiences of previous generations. (The Hidden Inequalities in Race, Mental Health, and the Workplace). I’ve turned to counselling and therapy to help process my past, and these resources have helped me build resilience, especially when facing difficult crossroads in life.

Carrying Their Legacy Forward

My parents’ journey continues to influence everything I do. Their resilience, love for family, and pride in their Jamaican heritage shape how I approach my work. Whether I’m coaching leaders, working with teams in high-pressure environments, or supporting individuals through personal challenges, I carry the lessons they passed on: never give up, embrace your heritage, and always keep moving forward.

The values they instilled in me—resilience, determination, and perseverance—guide everything I do. Their journey inspires me to help others overcome obstacles and build their own paths to success.

Final Thoughts:

Building a life in the UK was incredibly difficult for many of the Windrush Generation. They faced discrimination, barriers to opportunity, and countless challenges. Yet, they managed to survive and thrive through resilience and determination, creating homes and communities despite the obstacles. Like many others, My parents’ journey was filled with sacrifice and strength. Their legacy continues to shape my life and work today, inspiring me to help others build resilience and overcome their own challenges.

Mike Lawrence: Your Guide to Health & Wellbeing

I’m Mike Lawrence, a passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing. After overcoming significant health challenges, including brain surgery, I’ve dedicated myself to a journey of self-improvement and helping others thrive. From heart-pounding skydives for charity to soul-enriching travels in Thailand, my experiences have shaped my approach to holistic health.

I love sharing the lessons I’ve learned from these adventures and from the powerful audiobooks I devour. Let’s explore the paths to better mental and physical health together. Embrace life’s adventures with enthusiasm and resilience, and remember—you’re never alone on this journey!

Feel free to reach out via email at [email protected] or connect with me on LinkedIn. For more in-depth insights and inspiring stories, read my latest blogs here. Together, let’s create a healthier, happier future!