Culture And Memory

"Voices of Resilience: Preserving Arab-SWANA Heritage in London"

This project will empower Arab and SWANA (South West Asian and North African) young people aged 18-25 from London to explore the heritage of Arab and SWANA communities who came to London between 1950s and 1970s, the main wave of migration following the Nakba in 1948. Young people tell us they feel marginalised and disconnected, so this project will offer them a sense of connection, pride and belonging as they document personal stories about migration, displacement and cultural identity via collecting oral histories and archiving photographs, videos and personal objects that reflect the daily lives and cultural practices of their elders. We’ll reclaim and celebrate these stories, ensuring they are remembered, honoured and preserved to be made accessible to wider audiences. This will preserve past struggles and also inspire young people to continue advocating for just and inclusive futures and contribute meaningfully to the Arab-SWANA cultural landscape in the UK.