On the 20th of July 2024, around 30 students from Afghanistan and the Central Asian Association visited an urban farm in Hounslow to celebrate the end of their term. As they entered the farm, the children were filled with enthusiasm and excitement, eager to see the animals. They laughed and played as they explored the farm, curious about what animals they might encounter.
The children had the opportunity to connect with and learn about a variety of animals, including sheep, goats, alpacas, rabbits, and peacocks, among others. They were also able to feed many of the animals with food provided by the farm, which added to their enjoyment.
After spending time with the animals, the group gathered at a gazebo for lunch, where they enjoyed Afghan lubya (kidney bean curry). On a hot day, the children were also treated to refreshing ice lollies, which were a welcome delight.
As the day progressed, the children scattered for a while—some sat and chatted, while others had fun jumping on a bouncy castle. Later, everyone gathered at the park for a group photo, capturing the memories of their day together.
Overall, the experience was fantastic. It provided both the children and adults with a chance to bond, have fun, and learn something new. The children were genuinely happy and enjoyed the experience immensely. One child expressed, “The farm was really cool and exciting to see, and I’m really happy to be here.” The mothers also extended their gratitude to the ACAA for organising the event and bringing families together.
Written by: Vali Azizi (13 year old volunteer)