Newham’s Islamophobia Awareness Month programme, themed ‘Seeds of Change’ invites residents to explore how small actions can lead to significant change.
The programme features discussions, exhibitions, workshops, and performances, all designed to foster understanding and combat Islamophobia. Highlights include a conversation with YA author Ayaan Mohamud on 1 November and the Seeds of Change: Celebrating Islam installation by Sahra Hersi, running from 25-30 November at Applecart Arts. The month concludes with a SHAAM Nasheed concert on 30 November. To book onto events, visit www.newhamiam.org.
View the full programme below:
LAUNCH: In Conversation with Ayaan Mohamud
Friday 1 November, 7-9pm, Old Town Hall Stratford
A conversation with YA author Ayaan Mohamud about her novels You Think You Know Me (2023) and The Thread That Connects Us (2024) and the theme of this year’s Islamophobia Awareness Month programme ‘Seeds of Change’, highlighting how small actions can lead to big changes. Facilitated by Hudda Khaireh.
Newham’s Faith Buildings & Stories
1-30 November, Green Street Library
Architect Shahed Saleem brings us a visual display examining the architecture and evolution of Newham’s historic faith buildings. Accompanied by oral histories from faith leaders, the display also offers reflections on faith and public space.
Children’s Art Against Islamophobia
1-30 November, Maryland Primary School
A children's art exhibition addressing Islamophobia through creative works inspired by renowned Muslim artists. The exhibition will explore themes including understanding Islamophobia, identifying hate speech, highlighting the role of women in Islam, and debunking misconceptions. Produced by Maryland Primary School.
Unearthing Invisible Seafaring Histories of Empire
1-30 November, UEL Library, Archives and Learning Services
An exhibition exploring the early arrivals of Muslim seafarers at the Royal Victoria Dock and their contributions to the local community since the 1800s. The exhibition brings to light stories and experiences of the Muslim seafarers who arrived in East London. Produced by Asif Shakoor.
Muslim Women and Islamophobia – Creative Writing Workshops
Friday 1, 8, 15, 22 November, 5.30-7.30pm, East Ham Library
Author and creative writing mentor, Farzana Hakim, will lead a series of workshops with a focus on Muslim Women and Islamophobia. Residents will have space to explore their own experiences through creative writing and storytelling. Produced by Farzana Hakim.
Street Photography – Exploring Safety
Thursday 7 November, 11am-1pm, Green Street
Tuesday 12 November, 11am-1pm, Royal Docks
Tuesday 14 November, 11am-1pm, Stratford
Through a series of street photography sessions, explore public space and perceptions of Newham’s local streets. The photographer will invite participants to share experiences of using these public spaces and compile a series of photographs which reflect how differently we experience areas. To view the meeting points, visit the website. Produced by Sylvie Belbouab.
Reflections on Prophetic Wisdoms through Creativity
Saturday 16 November, 12-2pm, The Dovetail
This gathering combines thoughtful dialogue with artistic reflection, inviting individuals to connect deeply with these sacred teachings and express their personal insights through an art activity. Produced by Yusra Supdarowa.
Creative Journaling Workshop: Express & Reflect with Recycled Materials
Saturday 23 November, 12-2pm, The Lighthouse and Gardens
A creative journaling workshop that intertwines sustainability with self-expression, using reused materials to craft unique journals. This workshop is designed to reflect the powerful idea that beauty and value can be found in what is often overlooked, just as small, positive actions can gradually reshape societal attitudes towards inclusivity and understanding. Produced by Sustainably Muslim CIC.
Threads of Unity: Celebrating Muslim Women through Art
Saturday 23 November, 1.30-4.30pm, Stratford Library
Art workshop series in Newham celebrating Muslim women who wear the scarf. Engage in creating scarves, hear personal stories, and participate in discussions. Open to all, this event aims to reduce Islamophobia, build stronger community bonds, increase awareness, and reduce hate crimes against Muslim women. Produced by Hafza Yusuf.
Seeds of Change: Celebrating Islam Installation
25-30 November, Applecart Arts
Artist and spatial designer Sahra Hersi has designed an installation reflecting on themes of faith, connection to Allah (God), community and safety. The installation celebrates the beauty and safety existent in Islam and invites participants into the space for a moment of respite, calm, joy and beauty.
Seeds of Change: Celebrating Islam Installation Opening Talk
Monday 25 November, 6.30-8pm, Applecart Arts
A conversation with artist and spatial designer Sahra Hersi on the development of the installation and why celebrating Islam is so crucial at this time.
Houses of Wisdom Part II
Friday 29 November, 4-8pm, Applecart Arts
Houses of Wisdom explores embodied wisdom & knowledge within Black Muslim communities in Newham and beyond. This gathering will share memories, artefacts and experiences of how places and spaces have adapted for knowledge sharing. Produced by Shaheen Kasmani and RESOLVE Collective.
Muslim Women and Islamophobia – An Afternoon of Reflection
Friday 29 November, 5.30-7.30pm, East Ham Library
Participants who have engaged in the Muslim Women and Islamophobia Creative Writing Workshops will come together to share their writings and stories in this closing event. Produced by Farzana Hakim.
Muslim History and Heritage Workshop
Saturday 30 November, 12-2pm, Rabbits Road Press
Explore the rich tapestry of Muslim history in Newham and its connection to personal and family stories through this interactive workshop. This event is designed to foster a sense of connection, ownership, and value in understanding and documenting family history while mapping out Muslim contributions to the local and public realm. Produced by Sustainably Muslim CIC.
Phantom Parrot (2024) Film Screening
Details to be confirmed
A human rights activist is prosecuted under terror laws for refusing to hand over the passwords to his electronic devices during a border stop, unveiling unsettling questions about modern espionage and digital privacy.
FINALE: SHAAM Nasheed Concert
Saturday 30 November, 7-9pm, Old Town Hall Stratford
To close the month, Newham are joined by SHAAM Nasheed group who came together in late 1997 seeking to present and re-interpret traditional Islamic songs known as nasheeds – a genre that originates from the time of Prophet Muhammad pbuh.
To book onto events, visit www.newhamiam.org.
