South Asian Listening Circle | Shape What Comes Next

A free, open, facilitated space brought to you by the South Asian Heritage Trust, funded by The National Lottery.

Shape What Comes Next

South Asian Heritage Month is a time to celebrate our communities, our cultures, our histories and our stories.

But what should happen next?

On the final day of South Asian Heritage Month, we are inviting South Asian people from across the country to come together, share their experiences and help shape the future of South Asian Heritage Month and the communities it represents.

This is an opportunity to have your voice heard.

We want to listen to what matters to you. What do you want to see more of? What stories are not being heard? What would help you feel more connected, represented and included? What should our communities be thinking about, supporting and doing in the future?

This Listening Circle is a chance to reflect on the month, share your experiences and ideas, and help continue the conversation

You might want to talk about:

• What South Asian Heritage Month means to you
• Your experiences of celebrating and engaging with the month
• The stories, communities and experiences you feel are missing or underrepresented
• What you would like to see from South Asian Heritage Month in the future
• How we can create more opportunities for people to connect, celebrate and have their voices heard
• What role the South Asian Heritage Trust can play in supporting and representing South Asian communities

You don’t need to have attended any South Asian Heritage Month events to take part. You don’t need to be an expert or have all the answers.

You simply need to bring your experiences, thoughts, ideas and hopes for the future.

This is not a debate. There are no right or wrong answers. It is a space to listen, reflect and speak if and when you feel ready.

What to expect

A warm, welcoming and non-judgemental space with gentle facilitation throughout.

There is no pressure to speak. Listening is equally valued, and you are welcome to contribute as much or as little as feels comfortable.

The session is scheduled for 1.5 hours.

Who is this for?

This Listening Circle centres South Asian experiences and is open to anyone who wants to contribute to the conversation about the future of South Asian Heritage Month and the communities it represents.

Whether you are a community member, volunteer, artist, educator, professional, organiser, or simply someone with thoughts and ideas about the future of South Asian communities, you are welcome.

This is your opportunity to be part of the conversation.

With thanks to The National Lottery Community Fund for funding this project through Awards for All.