The courage that whispers, "Try again tomorrow"
"I did not arrive here empty. I came carrying storms."
These words stayed with me after reading the poems and reflections shared by people seeking safety and Migrant Help colleagues for Refugee Week.
Listen to and read the poems here
The theme this year was Courage.
When we hear that word, we often think of dramatic acts. But one contributor described courage differently:
"Not the courage that shouts for attention, but the kind that whispers, 'Try again tomorrow.'"
Reading through the collection, I was struck by how many different forms courage can take.
For Nisa, it was found in the example set by her mother:
"Mother, you are the shape of home."
For Uche, it was about belonging:
"I belong not just because I was invited, but because I am here — standing, growing, becoming."
For Tahsan, it was a reminder that people are always more than the labels attached to them:
"Because survival does not care who you once were."
The collection also included reflections from Migrant Help colleagues. One line from Meiko's poem really struck me:
"Courage is not always loud. It lives in quiet moments — in listening, in showing up, in choosing kindness again."
Together, the poems offer a glimpse into the many meanings of courage, home, belonging and hope.
They also ask something simple of us as readers: to pause long enough to see the person behind the word “refugee”.
Not as a headline. Not as a debate.
But as someone with memories, relationships, talents, fears, humour, faith, family, work, hopes and a future they are trying to rebuild.
That is why stories like these matter.
They help create the understanding that makes welcome possible.
A conversation.
A smile.
An invitation.
Small acts like these can help someone feel seen, valued and part of the place they now call home.
That’s one of the reasons Refugee Week matters.
It gives people the chance to tell their stories in their own words.
Not as headlines. Not as labels. But as people.
And through those words, courage becomes something quieter and more human:
"The courage to smile while healing in places nobody can see."
Listen, watch and read the Refugee Week poems and reflections here →
Refugee Week: find an event near you.
Refugee Week is the world’s largest arts and culture festival celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Events taking place across the UK through June and beyond — from food and music to talks, exhibitions, workshops and community gatherings.
Events are continuing this week and beyond. Take a look at the Refugee Week calendar to see what’s happening near you, or find inspiration for a simple act of welcome in your own community.
We may be new to the UK, but we're not new to nursing.
Before seeking safety in the UK, they were nurses, midwives and healthcare professionals caring for patients in their own countries.
A pioneering programme called ReSTORE is helping refugee nurses return to the profession, recognising the skills, experience and dedication they already bring. As one participant put it: "We may be new to the UK, but we're not new to nursing."
It's a powerful reminder that behind the label "refugee" are people with careers, talents and ambitions — and a great deal to contribute to their new communities.
Finding courage and connection on the Bibby Stockholm.
The Bibby Stockholm was an accommodation vessel moored in Dorset that housed hundreds of men seeking asylum while their claims were being processed. In this thoughtful reflection, a Migrant Help colleague shares the small moments of courage, friendship and belonging they witnessed there.
A man who was afraid of water jumped into the sea for the first time. A talented chess player found a local club. A musician picked up a guitar again after months of uncertainty.
It's a moving reminder that confidence, connection and hope are often rebuilt one small step at a time.
Looking for a practical way to help?
The Hope Exchange is full of simple, tangible projects that make a real difference to people rebuilding their lives in the UK. From school uniforms and shoes for children starting a new school, to vouchers and everyday essentials, each item helps someone feel welcome, included and part of their community.
Thanks for reading,
Mandy
PS. You’re part of a growing number of people who believe in looking out for one another. If you spot a story you think might be of interest to your fellow readers or have any feedback on the newsletter, then do let us know.
