On 2nd February 2026, we were delighted to welcome the Worshipful Mayor of Hounslow, Councillor Amy Croft, to the Afghanistan & Central Asian Association (ACAA) in Feltham.
Her visit was more than a formal engagement, it was an opportunity for genuine conversation, reflection, and connection between local government and the community we serve.
Sitting in on Integration in Action
The Mayor of Hounslow, Councillor Amy Croft began her visit by joining one of our integration classes. The session brought together students from a wide range of backgrounds who were discussing British values and what it truly means to become involved in British society.
The conversation focused on practical steps, volunteering, community engagement, and civic participation. It was inspiring to see learners not only building their understanding of life in the UK, but actively thinking about how they can contribute to it.
By sitting in on the class, Mayor Croft gained first-hand insight into how integration happens at a grassroots level, and the work we do at the ACAA, not just through policy, but through dialogue, confidence-building, and shared understanding.
A Story That Resonates
During the visit, our Founder and Director, Dr Nasimi MBE, delivered a powerful and personal speech about his own journey as a refugee. He spoke about the challenges of starting again in a new country and the determination and passion that led him to establish the ACAA.
His message was clear: integration is about opportunity, dignity, and belonging. It is about creating spaces where people feel supported to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.
Mayor Croft witnessed the passion that drives our work, the care of our staff, the dedication of our volunteers, and the determination of our community members.
Open Dialogue with the Community
One of the most impactful parts of the visit was the open question-and-answer session. Students, staff, and volunteers were able to ask Mayor Croft about her role both as Mayor and as a local councillor.
She explained how local councils operate and emphasised an important message: councillors are elected by the community, for the community. They are there to listen, to represent, and to help.
For many of our members, particularly those new to the UK, understanding how to connect with local representatives can feel daunting. This discussion helped normalise the process and encouraged greater civic engagement.
Community members also shared their own stories and spoke about what the ACAA means to them, including conversations around opportunities for Afghan women, challenges around integration, and the support needed for refugees rebuilding their lives.
Strengthening Collaboration
After the class discussion, Mayor Croft was given a tour of our centre, meeting staff and volunteers and learning more about our ESOL classes, computer workshops, community programmes, and cultural events.
Conversations turned to the future, how the ACAA and the Hounslow Council can work more closely together, how we can better connect our beneficiaries to their local councillors, and how collaborative events and initiatives can further strengthen the borough’s support network.
The visit highlighted something we strongly believe at the ACAA: effective community support depends on collaboration. Grassroots organisations understand the lived experiences of local people, while councils provide structure, resources, and strategic reach. When these two forces work together, communities become more resilient and inclusive.
We are incredibly grateful to The Mayor of Hounslow Councillor Amy Croft for taking the time to visit the ACAA and engage so openly with our community. Her willingness to listen, answer questions, and explore future collaboration reflects a shared commitment to supporting refugees and marginalised communities across Hounslow.
We hope this visit marks the beginning of continued partnership, one built on communication, mutual respect, and a shared goal of helping every member of our community thrive.
At the ACAA, we look forward to continuing this important conversation.
By Olivia Roberts