Refugee stories take centre stage at Inhabit Hotels
Four refugees share their real-life stories in an effort to inspire understanding and action, as part of a new event series from Inhabit Hotels and Asylum Speakers, starting this spring.
In an era in which refugees are routinely ‘Othered’, demonised and used as political footballs on both sides of the political divide, how often are we actually afforded the chance to hear directly from the individuals themselves?
Inhabit Hotels have teamed up with Asylum Speakers to facilitate that: from February 2025, a powerful new storytelling series means to bridge this empathy gap, bringing the voices of the displaced to the forefront – with all ticket sales going directly to the Asylum Speakers charity.
‘Asylum Speakers at Inhabit’, hosted at Inhabit Southwick Street in London, will feature four deeply personal and inspiring talks from those who’ve experienced migration firsthand. Through their stories, it’s hoped audiences will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of migration, resilience, and identity, in a world increasingly defined by movement and displacement.
The first event in the series, on 19 February, will feature Halimot, who was trafficked from Nigeria at the age of nine, and overcame modern-day slavery and FGM to become a social entrepreneur and advocate.
On 2 April, Ayman, an actor, filmmaker, and advocate, shares his harrowing journey from Syria to the UK, witnessing firsthand how climate change exacerbates displacement and forced migration.
Hiba’s story, scheduled for 11 June, highlights the struggles of being a transgender woman seeking asylum. Fleeing persecution in Pakistan, the visual artist and activist will discuss her experiences navigating gender identity, LGBTQIA+ rights, and the asylum process.
The final talk in the series, on 5 November, will feature Giel, who at age 16 made the arduous journey from South Sudan to the UK. Known for his humanitarian efforts in Libyan detention centres, his journey of survival and courage has made him a leading advocate for refugee rights. In this talk, he’ll stress the importance of cultural exchange, community-building, and travel as a means of fostering understanding.
Founded by Jaz O’Hara, a big sister to five child refugee brothers from Eritrea, Afghanistan, Sudan, and Libya, Asylum Speakers connects audiences with refugee and migrant speakers to share powerful stories of survival, raising awareness and challenging stereotypes around migration. “Asylum Speakers was founded on the idea that storytelling has the power to change perceptions,” she says. “These talks promise not only to educate but also to spark critical conversations around how refugees enrich our culture and communities.”
“We’re excited to partner with Asylum Speakers to bring these vital voices to the forefront,”says Samantha van Exter, Head of Hotels at Inhabit Hotels, known for its commitment to wellbeing, sustainability, and social impact and which has a Green Key certification and B Corp™ status. “Inhabit Hotels believes in the power of stories to foster connection and understanding.”
It’s perhaps fitting that the talks – co-hosted by Juliet Kinsman, founder of Bouteco, a purpose-led communications consultancy that helps sustainable hotels share stories that inspire change – will take place in Paddington: not only a multicultural neighbourhood in itself, but the name of one of the world’s most beloved asylum seekers.
Ticket are £25 with sales going directly to the Asylum Speakers charity.
Find out more about Asylum Speakers
Find out more about Inhabit Hotels
