On 1 December 2024, I organised and facilitated the Majlis Chai & Chat Fair and Henna Workshop, bringing together artists, community members and organisers for an afternoon of creativity and solidarity. The event was created for people to gather and support humanitarian initiatives, raising £1,341.26 for @operationolivebranch and @khartoum_aid_kitchen.

Project Focus

• Community building and connection

• Cultural exchange

• Collective action and solidarity

• Fundraising through creative practice

• Creating welcoming spaces for people to come together

My Role

I led the creative direction, organisation and facilitation of the event, bringing together artists, community groups and volunteers to create a collaborative and accessible experience.

My role included:

• Concept development and event planning

• Community outreach and collaboration

• Creative programming

• Coordinating participating artists and makers

• Creating a welcoming environment for attendees

Creative Elements

• Henna workshop

• Art making areas

• Artist stalls selling prints, stickers, paintings, ceramics, clothing and handmade goods

• Shared food and drink

• Community gathering spaces

• Conversations and connection between attendees

The atmosphere was designed to feel warm and communal like an Arabic living room or Majlis, with donated rugs, tablecloths and shared resources helping transform the space into one that felt like home.

Collaboration

• St Margaret’s House

• Goldsmiths for Palestine

• HUQ That

• SKAPED

• East African Collective

• Participating artists, makers and volunteers

Outcome

Beyond the funds raised, we created a space to share care and solidarity. It showed how creative practice can bring people together and support important causes.