A Celebration Rooted in Solidarity
At the start of July, we gathered for our 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM), and it was a truly powerful and moving evening. The event brought together our incredible community of people seeking sanctuary, volunteers, trustees, staff (past and present), partners, supporters, and even founders to celebrate the past year and look to the future.
This year's AGM centred on the theme of Community Power. It was a reflection of the strength, resistance, and solidarity that defines the ASSIST community, especially at a time when people seeking asylum continue to face brutal policies under the Hostile Environment and rising anti-migrant rhetoric and legislation.
The AGM was not just a meeting; it was a vibrant celebration:
- We shared highlights from the past year, acknowledging both the challenges we've faced and the extraordinary efforts across the organisation.
- We heard powerful speeches on community, justice, and resistance in the face of the Hostile Environment, with reflections on the aftermath of last summer's far-right riots.
- We engaged with an interactive group poetry session, led by the talented Sarah, ASSIST's Client Support Manager.
- We enjoyed live music, shared a meal, and connected in a welcoming environment.
Most importantly, the evening was client-led and client-focused, spotlighting that people seeking asylum are at the heart of everything we do. They are the reason ASSIST exists, and their voices and presence made the evening truly special.
Attendees left feeling inspired and connected, with many sharing how the event resonated with them:
Informed and uplifted. Uplifted. Connected. Impressed.
I feel incredibly privileged to be a part of this community.
Strength in Connection
Over 60 people attended, a diverse mix of ASSIST family members from across our long journey. It was an evening of warmth and consideration, but also a space where we reaffirmed our shared commitment to building a more welcoming and just Sheffield. We were reminded that solidarity isn't just a value; it's an action.
The positive feedback from those who attended highlighted the impact of the event:
Hearing from people like Abdul and all the people seeking sanctuary [was impactful]. The poem was also great. Bringing ideas as a group, working together to create new visions.
It was good to hear that ASSIST continues to flourish despite all the challenges.
Thank You
Events like this don't happen without a lot of heart and hard work behind the scenes. We'd like to extend our sincere thanks to:
- Victoria Hall for providing the wonderful space.
- Bevan and Lyds for the delicious food.
- Farhan for the mesmerising live music.
- Mary and Carolyn, our dedicated volunteers, who supported with set-up, greeting, food service, and more.
- Our trustees and staff team, who pulled everything together seamlessly.
- City of Sanctuary Sheffield and Lift The Ban Coalition for your invaluable partnership.
- And Jade, who beautifully photographed the evening.
We're proud of what we've built over these 22 years, but even more excited about where we're going. Community Power is flourishing at ASSIST, and it's growing!
You can find our 2024-25 Annual Review, our Financial Annual Accounts 2024-25, and the minutes from the AGM 2024-25 by clicking here.
