On the 25th of September 2024, the Afghanistan and Central Asian Association (ACAA) reached a significant milestone, marking a new chapter in our journey to support vulnerable communities. Travelling from Feltham to the vibrant borough of Croydon, we proudly launched a series of mental health workshops designed to empower and uplift local residents, particularly refugees and newcomers.
This initiative seeks to create a space for open dialogue, support, and healing, addressing the unique mental health challenges faced by marginalised groups. The event served not only as a formal launch but also as a reminder of our collective strength when we unite for a common purpose.
A Vision of Hope: Opening Remarks
The atmosphere was palpable with excitement as the event kicked off with an inspiring speech from our founder, Dr. Nasimi, whose personal journey of resilience and dedication has always been at the heart of the ACAA’s work. In his speech, he reminded us of the profound impact that community-driven efforts can have.
“Together, we can transform our community. Many refugees arrive here with trauma and heartache, but everything begins with knowledge — knowledge of the English language, knowledge of one’s rights, and knowledge of the resources available. That’s what we aim to offer through these workshops.”
Reflecting on his own experience, Dr. Nasimi shared:
“I was only seven when I arrived in the UK, and it was the support of this very community that allowed me to stand before you today. Starting a new life in an unfamiliar society is never easy, but with support, it becomes possible. I contacted my local MP for guidance, and just two months later, I established this charity. Here we are, with an income under a million, yet helping to evacuate families and offer life-changing support to the Afghan diaspora.”
Dr. Nasimi also touched on his recent honours, including his MBE awarded by King Charles III and an honorary doctorate from Royal Holloway University. “These recognitions,” he said, “are not the culmination of my ambition but a testament to the work still ahead. I am eager to continue being a voice for the diaspora, particularly here in South London, where our new project will hopefully sustain ACAA’s operations for years to come.”
Empowering Words from Community Leaders
We were honored to have several influential voices present at the launch, each bringing a unique perspective to the stage. Councillor Fatima Zaman shared her inspiring journey, shedding light on the rewarding nature of service and the importance of following one’s passion.
“Helping people is not just a job; it’s a calling,” she said, capturing the hearts of the audience. Her message of finding fulfillment in service resonated with many attendees, motivating them to seek out opportunities to contribute meaningfully to their own communities.
Councillor Zaman’s commitment to uplifting those around her was echoed by Councillor Claire Bonham, who offered a powerful message of unity. “You belong here,” she said, addressing the crowd. “You are now part of this community, and everything works better when we work together. The ACAA’s track record speaks for itself, but its vision for the future is what excites me. I hope we can partner in making that vision a reality.” Her words were a reminder that by working together, we can build a future where everyone feels they have a place.
Councillor Humayun Kabir, who himself immigrated from Bangladesh, spoke passionately about the potential he sees in the younger generation. “In this room, I can sense future leaders. Do not give up. Start planning for your future today,” he urged. His belief in the power of youth to shape the future was an energising call to action for all who attended.
Another inspiring speaker, Councillor Ria Patel, one of the youngest councillors representing the Green Party, encouraged youth engagement in local politics.
“There’s no age limit to becoming a councillor,” she emphasised, advocating for greater involvement from younger generations in leadership roles. She shared her own experience as a former equalities and diversity spokesperson, underscoring her passion for ensuring inclusivity across all levels of society.
“Regardless of where you come from or what you look like, everyone deserves access to opportunities,” she said. Her message of inclusivity was a powerful reminder of the need to foster diverse leadership to create a truly fair and just society.
A Bright Future for Mental Health in Croydon
As the event wrapped up, there was a tangible sense of hope in the room. The launch of these workshops represents more than just a new project for the ACAA; it is a commitment to supporting those who need it most. Our workshops will address mental health topics such as trauma, stress management, and resilience-building, offering a safe space for individuals to access support and resources.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who attended and contributed to making this event a success. To our founder, councillors, volunteers, and all who showed up – thank you for your support, your passion, and your belief in the work we are doing.
Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive community, one where mental health is prioritised, and no one is left behind. The journey has just begun, and we look forward to the impact these workshops will have on our community in the months and years to come.
If you or someone you know would benefit from our workshops, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We are here for you, every step of the way.
