Jo Furnival-Doran encountered a young boy in need of assistance while driving along the Pembrokeshire coast. The boy, named Mo, was residing at the Penally army barracks, repurposed by the Home Office to accommodate asylum seekers in 2020. Mo, a 19-year-old Palestinian who had traveled from Gaza to West Wales, was struggling to find food due to his lack of transportation and limited English proficiency. Jo, a physiotherapist and yoga instructor, offered him a ride to Tesco and a meal at her home.
Despite their different backgrounds and languages, Mo and Jo’s daughter Molly, a 32-year-old event producer, formed a strong bond over shared interests in music, food, and cooking. Inspired by Mo’s resilience in adapting to life in the UK, Molly decided to embark on a solo cycling journey from Europe to the Middle East, culminating near the Rafah-Gaza border. The expedition, named “The Cycle has to Change,” aims to raise funds for grassroots organizations supporting Gaza communities.
Molly, a former athlete, has been meticulously preparing for the challenging ride, which will cover approximately 4800 km over three months. While Mo, now settled in the UK, has assisted in planning the route, ensuring safety amid regional unrest. The journey holds personal significance for Molly, honoring Mo’s perilous migration experience and highlighting the need for compassion and awareness in border crossings.
The closure of the asylum seeker camp at Penally Army Barracks in 2023 exposed harsh living conditions, prompting reforms and eventual sale of the premises by the Ministry of Defence. Mo, now established in the UK, has secured legal status and is pursuing career opportunities while cherishing his newfound family bond with Molly and her relatives.
Despite the distance from his homeland, Mo remains connected to his roots through shared experiences and memories with Molly. Grateful for the support and love he has received, Mo expresses concern for Molly’s safety during her upcoming cycling expedition. The duo’s enduring friendship and mutual admiration reflect a testament to the power of human connection and solidarity.
Support Molly’s fundraising journey by donating here.