Last summer, Riada Kullani, an Albanian immigrant in the UK, experienced déjà vu during the anti-immigration riots that struck the country. Over a decade ago, upon her arrival in Britain, she faced hostility, initially being detained in Wakefield and later relocated to shared asylum-seeker housing in Stockton-on-Tees, marked by distinctive chipboard doors painted red.
Living with other traumatized women from various countries in the rundown accommodation, Riada recalled the nights of harassment by hostile groups throwing objects at their windows and hurling insults. The fear instilled in them made simple tasks like buying food a daunting ordeal.
The proximity of recent riots, occurring just miles away, reignited past anxieties for Riada and fellow refugees, evoking feelings of fear and apprehension. The unrest, which caused substantial damage in Middlesbrough, prompted a sense of regression and unease among the refugee community.
Despite the chaos, Middlesbrough locals displayed solidarity by swiftly cleaning the streets and safeguarding places of worship from potential attacks. The resilience and unity exhibited during the turbulent times reflected a community’s strength and compassion.
Amidst the turmoil, the Flower Patch gardening project in Middlesbrough emerged as a symbol of hope and collaboration between refugees and local residents. Riada, once a lawyer in Albania who self-taught English through children’s shows, now assists newcomers in acclimating to their new home.
The Flower Patch project, beyond its botanical aspects, serves as a therapeutic space fostering well-being and intercultural exchange. Riada emphasized the significance of integration and mutual learning among residents, highlighting the project’s role in building a sense of community.
Despite personal challenges, Riada remains a beacon of positivity, symbolized by her vibrant attire and outlook on life. She emphasized the importance of infusing color into one’s life amidst uncertainty, underscoring the project’s role in fostering a sense of belonging and rejuvenation.
The experiences shared by refugee volunteers like Riada, Shirley, and Abubakarr at the Flower Patch shed light on the diverse reasons individuals seek refuge in the UK. Their narratives of resilience, perseverance, and self-discovery mirror the transformative power of community initiatives like the Flower Patch in Middlesbrough.