A Life Rewritten: How Mirela Turned Courage into a Calling

From humble beginnings in Romania to building a new life in London, Mirela Simona Anghelache’s journey is a testament to the power of courage, faith, and reinvention. A mother of three and the founder of Rafidin Ltd, Mirela has transformed every challenge into a stepping stone toward her dream — empowering others through education and self-development. Her story isn’t about overnight success; it’s about rediscovering purpose, staying true to one’s values, and proving that it’s never too late to begin again.

What first inspired you to leave Romania and start a new life in London?

My decision to leave Romania and start a new life in London was inspired by a desire for new opportunities and the hope of a better future. I was motivated by the prospect of experiencing a different culture, accessing greater career prospects, and ultimately creating a more fulfilling life for myself. The idea of growth and new beginnings fueled my determination to embrace change and pursue my goals abroad.

Looking back, what was the hardest part about starting over in a new country — and what helped you push through it?

Starting over in a new country can be incredibly challenging, especially when you’re alone and your children are far away with your parents. The hardest part is often the feeling of loneliness and missing your loved ones, which can create emotional strain and a sense of disconnection. Adjusting to a new culture, language, and routines adds to the difficulty.

Finding a new one. community and support network, staying connected with my children through calls or messages, and focusing on my personal goals and resilience, helped me a lot .Furthermore, I kept myself focused on my goals by maintaining hope and remembering what motivated me to start over in the first place.

You began working as a cleaner, then quickly became a care assistant. What did those early experiences teach you about resilience and growth?

Those early experiences taught me that resilience and growth often come from stepping outside of comfort zones. Working as a cleaner and then as a care assistant, I learned to adapt quickly, handle challenging situations with patience, and develop a stronger sense of compassion. These roles showed me that endurance and a willingness to learn are key to personal and professional growth, even in demanding environments. During this time, I studied Business Management, Education and Training, Leadership and Management for Adults Care, and now I’m studying for a Level 6 Diploma in Health Care Management.

You hold impressive degrees in Accounting, Engineering, and Finance. How did your education shape the woman and entrepreneur you are today?

My education in Accounting, Engineering, and Finance has played a crucial role in shaping the woman and entrepreneur I am today. These degrees provided me with a strong foundation in analytical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making. They taught me discipline, attention to detail, and the importance of continuous learning. Additionally, the diverse knowledge I gained helped me approach challenges with a multidisciplinary perspective, fostering innovation and resilience. Altogether, my education empowered me to build a successful career and develop my entrepreneurial spirit.

What inspired you to start your company, Rafidin Ltd, and what do you hope it will bring to others?

My inspiration to start Rafidin Ltd came from a desire to make a positive impact and create opportunities for others. I wanted to establish a company that not only achieves business success but also contributes to the community by providing valuable services and employment.

Rafidin Education Courses Online offers a path for motivated learners to gain the knowledge ,hands-on-skills, and professional habits ,all through modern digital learning. Rafidin is derived from my parents’ names: Rafira and Dinu, the most wonderful people in my life who guide me to be who I am today.

I hope Rafidin Ltd will inspire others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, demonstrate the importance of resilience and innovation, and ultimately bring growth, stability, and a sense of purpose to those it touches.

You mentioned wanting to help people develop new skills and find confidence. Why is empowerment through education so important to you?

Empowerment through education is very important to me because I believe that learning opens doors to new opportunities, confidence, and personal growth. My mother, being my primary school teacher, played a significant role in developing my love for learning and showing me the power of education to transform lives. Her influence taught me that when people gain new skills and knowledge, they become more confident and capable of overcoming challenges. I want to help others experience that same empowerment, so they can realize their potential and achieve their dreams.

How do you stay motivated during difficult times, especially when plans don’t go as expected?

I stay motivated during difficult times by recalling my belief that we are not alone in this universe. I trust that a higher power has given us a purpose and the necessary tools to navigate life’s challenges. When plans don’t go as expected, I see it as an opportunity to understand the message or lesson behind the experience. This perspective helps me remain resilient, stay focused on my goals, and trust that setbacks are part of a greater journey toward growth and fulfillment.

You’ve spoken beautifully about authenticity and staying true to yourself. What does “being authentic” mean to you in daily life?

To me, being authentic in daily life means staying true to my values, passions, and beliefs, regardless of external pressures. It’s about being honest with myself and others, expressing my thoughts sincerely, and acting in alignment with who I truly am. Authenticity also involves embracing my strengths and imperfections, and not pretending to be someone I’m not. Living authentically helps me build genuine connections and lead a more fulfilled and meaningful life.

Why do you believe it’s so important for women to celebrate their milestones — big or small?

I believe it’s important for women to celebrate their milestones—big or small—as each one meaningfully affirms their effort, growth, and progress. Honoring these moments builds confidence, nurtures self-love, and reminds women of their inner strength and achievements. Recognizing milestones also fuels continued growth and fosters a positive mindset. Ultimately, it empowers women to value themselves, embrace their unique journeys, and inspire others to do the same.

Finally, what message would you like to share with women who are still trying to find their strength and purpose?

My message to women who are still searching for their strength and purpose is to remember that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Never accept humiliation or anything that diminishes your worth. Believe in your inherent strength, trust in your potential, and stay true to your values. Every challenge is a stepping stone to discovering who you truly are. Keep faith in yourself, seek support when needed, and know that your purpose is uniquely yours—worthy of pursuit and celebration.