A few years ago, I had the opportunity to collaborate more and more with an incredible organisation, Second Tree. They provide education, scouts groups, regular training and moments of sharing, whilst building community in refugee camps, where everything else tends to dehumanise people.

Second Tree works every day to change the narrative about refugees. They do this by treating refugees as people, beyond the stereotypes that want to see them as victims, or as heroes, or as children to be protected: as people who, when treated with respect, have the opportunity and the responsibility to contribute to our society, just like anybody else.

For my birthday, I am lucky enough not to need anything, , and nothing would make me happier than knowing that your gift will transform into helping create concrete opportunities. It could provide notebooks and pencils for the children in the camp,  English teachers who open up the world, or training hours for the refugee researchers we are forming together for a European project. It could also help raise awareness and provide advocacy for Abu Bakar’s battle to bring his wife Fatama’s murderers to court. Or a day at the sea for those who in the sea may have faced their worst nightmare, but are now beginning their new lives.