Finding My Voice Through Hey Salam Hola Bwakeye
When I first heard about Hey Salam Hola Bwakeye, I knew I wanted to be involved. The project immediately captured my interest because it offered a chance to bring people together through storytelling and shared experiences. After a friend introduced me to the project and encouraged me to take part, I saw an opportunity to contribute to something meaningful while sharing my own journey.
From the beginning, I felt welcomed and valued. Every conversation, activity and creative session reminded me that stories have the power to connect people from different backgrounds and experiences. Being part of a project that celebrates those stories felt both exciting and rewarding.
One of my favourite memories is the photoshoot. The atmosphere was filled with energy, creativity and purpose. Everyone involved brought enthusiasm and dedication, and there was a real sense of teamwork throughout the day. Watching people work together with such passion made me proud to be part of the project. The experience captured the spirit of Hey Salam Hola Bwakeye: people coming together to create something that reflects who they are and what they want to share with the world.
As a co-creator, I had the opportunity to share my story through speech and modelling. That experience gave me a sense of freedom and confidence. Standing in front of the camera and speaking about my experiences encouraged me to express myself in ways I had not done before. I felt proud to contribute my voice to the exhibition and honoured to represent my own experiences alongside those of others.
The project also taught me a great deal about myself. I discovered the importance of perseverance and learned how much I can achieve when I stay focused and keep moving forward. Every stage of the process strengthened my confidence and reminded me of my own potential. I came away with a greater belief in myself and a stronger understanding of what I am capable of accomplishing.
Alongside these personal lessons, I gained a deeper appreciation for the power of community. Throughout the project, I met people who encouraged, supported and inspired one another. Their kindness and belief in each other's stories created an environment where everyone could grow. Those experiences showed me how powerful it can be when people feel seen, heard and respected.
When visitors experience the exhibition, I hope they take away an appreciation for the many different stories that exist within our communities. Every person carries experiences that shape who they are, and every story offers an opportunity to learn something new. I hope people leave with a greater sense of empathy, curiosity and understanding. I hope they recognise the value of listening to others and respecting perspectives that may be different from their own.
Hey Salam Hola Bwakeye has given me the opportunity to share my voice, build my confidence and connect with others through storytelling. It is an experience I will always remember, and I am proud to have played a part in bringing these stories to life. My hope is that everyone who visits the exhibition leaves inspired by the people behind the stories and reminded of the importance of creating spaces where every voice can be heard.
