This is the last blog for ‘The Hero’s Journey’ series, where we have been discussing Amanul’s story of the challenges he has faced and his transformation process under Code4000. Following from the previous blog on the ‘special knowledge’ acquired by the hero, in this blog, we discuss the ‘Ascent to a Higher Place’ for both Amanul and our team (the Cambridge GRC group for Code 4000). The ascent to a higher place describes the final scene where the hero has worked hard at creating the habits of heroism, and such hard work comes into fruition when the hero finally understands the correct steps to take for the next stage of his/her life.
In Amanul’s interview, he describes how after Code 4000, he has not only acquired a new set of coding skills, but also experienced great psychological development in terms of self-esteem and drive regarding his future pursuits. All of this manifests in the form of Amanul’s progression to Code Your Future, an even more advanced coding course to develop his skills, competences and confidence. Importantly, Amanul notes how Code4000 will ‘always be there for its students even after their sentences have finished’, and that Jim in particular is constantly there to provide guidance for Code4000’s alumni — ‘Whenever I’ve needed Jim, he’s never held back, never been late to an appointment. Whenever I’ve needed him, he’s always been there.’
Upon reflection, over the past few months, Amanul’s journey has highly resonated with and inspired the Cambridge GRC team’s growth during our own ‘Hero’s Journey’. Hearing Amanul’s story and witnessing milestones in Code4000’s development (e.g. new partnerships and projects), I have personally become even more encouraged to pursue my career goal of improving the criminal justice system. I have also observed and learnt from my teammates’ admirable qualities: Jim’s steadfast commitment towards Code4000 and its students, Roy’s leadership skills, Chris’s sense of humour, Olexa’s quiet assuredness, and Shayan’s creativity in finding new avenues to raise awareness for Code4000. Above all, I have been inspired by Code4000’s ethos of helping others in need, and touched by Amanul’s story of resilience and solidarity among Code4000’s students. I hope you readers also find that such traits demonstrated by the students are applicable to every situation and walk of life.
It has been a pleasure being part of this rewarding campaign to raise awareness for Code4000, and I have no doubt that the next stage for this organisation is highly promising. Finally, a massive thank you to the kind readers who have been reading our blogs and following our journey. Code4000 relies on small donations from individuals to continue teaching its students, so please consider offering your support to the organisation here.
You can support the work Code4000 do by donating on our Enthuse page, here.
