Colours of Compassion
The Colours of Compassion project is supported by Religions for Peace UK in collaboration with Belfast City of Sanctuary and York City of Sanctuary. The project brings together refugees, asylum seekers, African communities of all genders in Belfast, and women from Ukraine in York to explore identity, belonging, healing, and cultural connection through creative expression.
Using visual arts, movement, meditation, storytelling, and reflective dialogue, the programme creates safe, compassionate, and supportive spaces where participants can share their experiences, build confidence, strengthen resilience, and develop meaningful community connections.
Through both individual and collaborative creative processes, participants are encouraged to express emotions, reflect on their personal journeys, and connect with others through shared experiences. The programme promotes wellbeing, intercultural understanding, mutual support, and hope, while helping participants adapt to new environments and rediscover their inner strengths.
Religious Co-existence Creative Practice
This workshop was led by Newcastle University and supported by Religions for Peace UK. Co-led by Nicoleta, the session explored how different perspectives shape our understanding of objects, symbols, and faith traditions.Through creative practice and collaborative art-making, students were encouraged to reflect on the values of respect, diversity, and peaceful coexistence. The Fabric of Faith served as a reference point, demonstrating how co-created artwork can foster togetherness, collaboration, and interreligious learning.
The central concept of the workshop was that a single object or symbol can carry multiple meanings depending on context, culture, and personal experience. By recognising and respecting these different interpretations, participants were encouraged to create space for dialogue, understanding, and peace.
Through discussion, creative exploration, and shared reflection, the workshop promoted empathy, mutual respect, and a deeper appreciation of diverse beliefs and perspectives, highlighting the importance of inclusive communities in an increasingly interconnected world.
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