Redrawing the future: Ahmed’s story
From delivery driver to talented tattooist, Ahmed’s journey in custody took him down a whole new path. This is his story.
Practise makes progress
It all started with picking up a pencil. In no time at all, Ahmed realised he really enjoyed drawing, and was becoming well known for it. This led to several staff members referring him to a tattoo course through the Education Department at HMP Wayland, run by Elever Training.
Confidence through craft
Ahmed was ready to turn his skills into something real. He fully committed to the course, and quickly stood out as one of the strongest learners. The course trainer was especially impressed by his ability to draw realistically. Ahmed soon became one of the top students in the group.
As Ahmed’s talents grew, so did his confidence. He began to see tattooing not just as something he enjoyed, but as a career. Something that would give him stability and purpose. Something that would help him have a clear direction for the future. Something that would help him build a better life for himself.
Nurturing a natural talent
After the course, Ahmed’s incredible work created new opportunities. On release, he’ll complete an extra week of practical tattooing in the community. Unable to return to his old job, Ahmed now has a clear next step, and a route into work.
While on the tattoo course, Ahmed’s positivity, reliability, and motivation shone. These are qualities valued by all employers, across all industries. At every stage, HMP Wayland staff were there to support him. Whether through guidance, opportunities or simply checking in, they empowered Ahmed to follow his talents. He’s now more prepared for settling back into the community, and excited for starting work.
Redrawing the future
The change in Ahmed doesn’t just come from a new direction. He’s now someone with greater self-belief, who’s able to recognise his strengths and face the future. Tattooing has helped him overcome his past, and brought out positive behaviours: discipline, reliability, pride. It’s hard to believe that all that – and going from a short course to a potential career – could start with a doodle.
Ahmed is now looking forward to life on the outside, and his course trainer may even be able to find him a role at a local studio in the area. His reflections show how powerful it is to believe in someone: “I never thought you’d get a chance to do something like this in prison. It’s given me a proper chance, and now I actually believe I could make a living as a tattoo artist when I get out.”