this is just the beginning…

Coverage: Rishan’s TV interview

By Rishan, KRAN Media Ambassador

We were proud to recently host a joint conference with Right to Remain and These Walls Must Fall, under the title Courage, Solidarity and Action.

It was the first of its kind in Kent and as co-compere, I was delighted to welcome more than 70 delegates from community groups and organisations, as well as individuals. It was also good to welcome ITV News Meridian to cover the event.

The conference provided a platform not only for me - and other young people - to share my own experiences, but also to sit alongside people from different sectors. Being part of those conversations gave me the chance to actively listen, learn from others and engage throughout the day.

It was a safe and welcoming space where people shared their thoughts, ideas and work/life experiences. It created a strong sense of belonging and unity.

The resulting solidarity statement reflects our shared goal: Our Kent communities believe that together, we can create a peaceful, inclusive, and fair society that celebrates our shared humanity.

The delegates also spoke - and dreamt of - what utopia in Kent would be: a place of commnity inclusion and a celebration of diversity. A place where everyone has access to resources and opportunities and where groups and individuals collaborate through supportive networks.

There would be plenty of social engagement and community activities, with ongoing educational and occupational development for professionals and those who face barriers. A utopian Kent would have positive messaging and a positive mindset, push for advocacy and policy change and strengthen communication and connectivity through community networks. 

Moving forward, I know this conference is just the beginning. Conversations will continue and connections grow stronger. We will keep working with our network of groups and communities to ensure ambitions are turned into local action.