We spoke with Waleed, the director and founder of Yemen Land Ltd, a charitable commercial initiative by Yemeni migrants in Britain, about his journey from Yemen, finding a sense of home in the UK, and his participation as a Co-author in ‘CONGREGATION’, an art installation by Es Devlin.
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My name is Waleed, and I’m originally from Aden, a city in southern Yemen that was a British colony for 130 years. This long colonial history created a unique connection with Britain, reflected in the city’s architecture, the design of residential neighbourhoods and a strong familiarity with the English language. Yet, my journey to the UK was anything but straightforward.
Years ago, I made the heart-wrenching decision to leave Yemen, parting from friends, loved ones, and the memories that clung to every corner, street, café and library. My homeland was being torn apart by successive conflicts, and I was driven to seek safety, stability and a future. What seemed simple and natural to many – dignity, security and opportunity, were dreams that carried the weight of a lifetime for me.
My path was filled with challenges. I temporarily settled in various places across the East and West, mistakenly believing each to be my final stop. But each time, hopes were dashed, and dreams faded, leaving me once again a migrant in search of hope.
‘My most recent pursuit of stability and dignity came at the highest cost – two years of separation from my family, the hardest experience of my entire journey.’
Arriving in the UK was a relief, but it was also a new challenge. Integration was difficult; navigating the diverse culture, laws, rights and different dialects seemed daunting at first. But I refused to give in. I tackled each obstacle head-on, determined to integrate quickly and contribute positively to society. I found reassurance in the UK’s true freedom and equality and the many opportunities to support others.
Shortly after arriving, I began volunteering with Citizens Advice London and became an Equal Access Activist with Student Action for Refugees. In 2021, I was elected Deputy Vice President of Birkbeck STAR. I also initiated and led a refugee integration campaign within the Yemeni and other communities in Britain and worked as a Sanctuary Researcher for the Compass Project at Birkbeck.
Today, I am the director and founder of Yemen Land Ltd. a charitable initiative by Yemeni migrants in Britain, aiming to bring the wonders of Yemen to the UK through high-quality products from its stunning landscape.
I was inspired to participate in ‘CONGREGATION’ by a deep desire to engage with a community through art and explore the power of collective experiences. The idea of bringing refugees together in a shared space, where they can connect with each other and the artwork resonated with me. Art has a unique ability to foster dialogue, reflection and emotional connection, and I wanted to be part of a project that could create such an impact.
I hope that those who experience the artwork will leave with a sense of unity and a deeper appreciation of the strength and beauty found in diversity. I want them to feel connected not only to the art but also to each other, recognising that our differences can unite us in meaningful ways.
Ultimately, I hope the artwork encourages viewers to reflect on their roles within their communities and inspires them to contribute to the creation of inclusive and supportive spaces for refugees and asylum seekers in their daily lives.
‘Through my journey, I’ve learned that home is not just a place but where you find peace, dignity and your true self.’
It’s important for people to hear the stories of those forced to flee their homes. These stories humanise the refugee experience, foster empathy and challenge misconceptions. Refugees are not just survivors; we are contributors who enrich society’s diversity and strength.
To all the refugees and asylum seekers: Don’t give up. Follow your dreams and believe in yourselves. Seeking refuge is a human right, not a crime. Humanity is interconnected, and everyone deserves the right to live in peace.
Discover more about CONGREGATION and the Co-authors by visiting this link.
