ACAA
OVERVIEW
The Afghanistan and Central Asian Association (ACAA) is a charity dedicated to supporting refugees in the UK and Afghanistan, striving to enhance their quality of life. Founded in 2001 by Dr. Nooralhaq Nasimi, who himself arrived in the UK as a refugee in 1999, ACAA is driven by a deep understanding of the challenges faced by displaced individuals. The organization provides crucial support in areas such as integration, advocacy, and empowerment, creating a lifeline for those in need.
COLLABORATING TO PROMOTE INCLUSION AND EMPOWERMENT
My decision to collaborate with ACAA stemmed from their remarkable dedication to fostering inclusion and improving the lives of refugees. The opportunity to work with such a committed organization aligned with my passion for using storytelling to drive social change. The collaboration began with the Game Changers campaign, aimed at promoting the inclusion of Muslim women and girls in sport. By photographing and designing campaign materials for Abresham FC, an amateur football team in London, I was able to highlight the importance of visibility and representation in sports. The campaign's impact was further underscored by its promotion at an International Women’s Day event at the Royal Albert Hall.
CELEBRATING RESILIENCE: INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY
Following this, I worked on a photography and storytelling project for International Women’s Day, focusing on Afghan women who had fled their homeland due to the Taliban’s return. These women shared their harrowing stories and were photographed in traditional attire, celebrating their cultural heritage and resilience. This project aimed to honor their bravery and amplify their voices, providing a platform for their experiences to be heard and recognized.
CONTINUED SUPPORT AND INNOVATIVE PROJECTS
My ongoing collaboration with ACAA includes supporting initiatives like Zanan, a program dedicated to women’s empowerment. This continued partnership reflects ACAA’s mission to advocate for refugee communities and highlights the organization’s commitment to driving positive change.
A SHARED MISSION
ACAA’s dedication to addressing the needs of refugees and promoting social inclusion resonates deeply with my own values. Working with ACAA has allowed me to contribute to their mission while showcasing the strength and resilience of the individuals they support. This collaboration has been both impactful and rewarding, reinforcing the power of storytelling in fostering empathy and driving social change.
