Former Refugee Turned Labor Advocate: Samee Ullah's Journey from Mechanic to Delivery Service Works Council

Samee Ullah, originally from Pakistan where he trained as an aircraft engine mechanic, arrived in Europe as a refugee and initially faced employment restrictions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, after experiencing unemployment, he responded to a Facebook advertisement and began working as a delivery rider for the food delivery service Lieferando. Ullah had previously recommended the company to other immigrants seeking work. He now serves as a member of the works council at Lieferando, where he advocates against exploitative practices and systemic issues affecting workers. In an interview with journalist Mareice Kaiser for the publication der Freitag, Ullah discussed his background and motivations. Kaiser uses the term "Malocher" to describe individuals like Ullah who share insights about their working conditions. Ullah's transition from a skilled trade to delivery work highlights broader labor market challenges for immigrants. His current role focuses on improving conditions for delivery personnel and addressing unfair treatment within the gig economy framework.