Beyond Conflict: Stories of Unity, Courage and Hope
Hosted by the wonderful, Helen BingleyOBE JP DL, the Former High Sheriff of Lancashire, The Light Foundation successfully hosted its Refugee Week 2026 event, Beyond Conflict: Stories of Unity, Courage and Hope, at the Quaker Friends Meeting House, Preston, bringing together community leaders, public service representatives, faith groups and local residents for an inspiring evening of reflection, understanding and solidarity.
The event, held as part of Refugee Week and aligned with this year’s theme of Courage, highlighted the experiences, resilience and contributions of refugees through powerful personal testimonies from members of Preston’s diverse communities.
The evening was honoured by the presence of Councillor Nweeda Khan, Madam Mayor of Preston, the first Muslim woman to hold the office of Mayor in the city’s history. Representatives and distinguished leaders from the council, faith communities, education and health services attended, demonstrating a shared commitment to community cohesion and social inclusion.
Guests heard moving presentations from three speakers whose personal journeys reflected the realities of conflict, displacement and rebuilding lives, and how their respective faiths played a central and significant role.
Ari Abdullah shared reflections on Kurdish identity, resilience and the importance of community support in overcoming adversity.
Viktoriia Murych spoke about the impact of the conflict in Ukraine, offering a message of hope and determination while describing her experiences of adapting to life in the United Kingdom.
Mustafa Alhussein provided a Syrian perspective on conflict, refuge and integration, highlighting the positive contributions refugees make to society and the importance of looking towards the future with optimism.
Throughout the evening, speakers emphasised the values of compassion, understanding and unity, while audience members engaged in meaningful discussions about the challenges and opportunities faced by refugee communities.
A spokesperson for the Light Foundation said:
“The stories shared tonight reminded us that behind every refugee journey is a story of courage, resilience and hope. We are grateful to our speakers, guests and partners for helping create an evening that strengthened understanding and celebrated the richness that diversity brings to our communities.”
The Light Foundation extends its sincere thanks to all attendees, volunteers and speakers, whose support made the event possible.
Special thanks are also given to Chaii Stop, Preston City Council and KW Foods for their valued support.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from participants to continue building bridges between communities and promoting a more inclusive and compassionate society.
