Ismail

Senior firsthand Guide
Memphis, TN

Ismail joined firsthand in the fall of 2022. Previously, he guided individuals on probation or parole through alcohol and drug classes, DUI classes, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and anger management. Ismail has been an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous since 2006, and celebrated 17 years of sobriety in 2023. The road to recovery was a challenging one, and Ismail spent more than 20 years in and out of jail.

For him, it was a peer who led him down the road to recovery. An old friend brought him to a recovery group that he was attending, which Ismail said he wouldn't have attended otherwise. The trust that Ismail had in his friend made it possible for him to take the next step, and inspires the work he does as a peer today.

For Ismail, the true reward is seeing individuals start to get the help they need, improving and beginning to live fuller, healthier lives. This inspires him each day and motivates him to continue the vital work he does. His advice for those living with serious mental health illnesses, physical conditions, or substance use disorders is to actively seek help and engage in support groups. He believes that having a community of shared experiences can lead to better comprehension and progress in the recovery journey.

Ismail is most proud of his sobriety, which has allowed him to do incredible work helping others. He serves the recovery community as the treasurer of his home group and the vice president of Fremont Recovery Center while also taking the time to enjoy his love for sports.