Beyond Borders: My story, my Future

This creative workshop invites young people to explore themes of identity, belonging and resilience through two linked activities: and identity collage (expressing who you are beyond migration) and a letter to your future self (imagining hopes and dreams ahead). Using art, writing and reflection, participants will celebrate their cultures, strengths, and aspirations. No advanced English needed, and multilingual expression is welcome. 

This workshop is designed for young people for whom English is a second language, creating a safe and creative space to explore the themes of identity, belonging, and resilience. Too often, migration stories are told only in terms of legal status or hardship. This session shifts the focus, inviting participants to reflect on the richness of their cultures, the strengths they carry, and the futures they imagine for themselves.

The workshop will combine two key activities: an Identity Collage, where participants visually express who they are beyond migration labels, and a Letter to the Future Self, offering a chance to capture their hopes, values, and dreams.

Through these activities, we will address questions such as: What makes me proud of my identity? Where and with whom do I feel a sense of belonging? How do I want to see myself in the future?

Participants can expect an interactive and supportive format, blending hands-on creativity, group discussion, and quiet personal reflection. No advanced English is required; expression through images, colours, symbols, or native languages is encouraged.

By attending, young people will gain an opportunity to celebrate who they are today, affirm their resilience, and strengthen a positive vision of their futures.

Dr Mikal Woldu, UKRI Postdoctoral Research fellow, SOAS University of London

Young people aged 15-17

The event is of particular interest for young people with a migratory background.

By invitation only