The Changemakers programme, in partnership with the Change in the Community Fund, empowers students to volunteer with established charities dedicated to creating meaningful social impact.
Thanks to this support, Nadia Chu, PhD in Sociology, was able to contribute her time and expertise to UK Welcomes Refugees and BN(O) Mothers Ethnodrama; initiatives focused on fostering inclusion and resilience among migrant communities. With a longstanding commitment to community-driven change, Nadia’s involvement deepened her understanding of how creative, story-based approaches can empower marginalised voices and strengthen community bonds.
Nadia says:
“I had the privilege of collaborating with Welcomes Refugees and BN(O) Mothers Ethnodrama to co-host a three-hour art-based workshop in Manchester.
We welcomed Hong Kong mothers who have arrived in the UK via the British National (Overseas) [BN(O)] visa scheme, offering them a space to pause, reflect, and express their stories through drawing, movement, and storytelling.
We also invited their children to join. They created beautiful cardboard houses using recycled materials—each one a personal expression of home, identity, and imagination.
All the artworks created by both mothers and children will be part of an upcoming exhibition - more details coming soon!”
One mother commented:
“Drama helps us express and release emotions we often keep hidden. One key takeaway from this workshop was learning to better understand our feelings and reconnect with our inner child. I’m grateful to have met other mothers facing similar challenges—it’s comforting to know we have each other’s support.”
This project was made possible with the support of Rupert Baines and Homerton College Changemakers through the Change in the Community Fund.
Nadia concludes:
“I’m deeply grateful to everyone involved—and especially to the amazing mothers who trusted us with their stories.”
As well as taking part in the Changemakers programme, Nadia is a Changemaker Ambassador, and says both have helped her connect with like-minded peers, share her passion, and inspire others to take action in their own spheres through networking events and regular conversation opportunities with great leaders.
The impact of her work can now be evidenced in her future research and career, ensuring it remains grounded in real-world impact and community engagement. She is now more committed than ever to building a more inclusive and engaged society.
