Our poetry workshops in August and September brought participants together to share stories, express feelings and build friendships through writing and conversation.
One session explored the stories and meanings behind our names, giving participants the
opportunity to reflect on their identities, memories and connections to home.
“When I start writing, I feel lost. But then I feel confident to write more and more.”
“ My name is Amal ,is Arabic name means Many Hopes “
“My mum tends to give all my siblings names with the same ending. I was lucky enough to be named Momtaz, which means “excellent.”
Another participant expressed gratitude for being able to attend, write poems and make new friendships.
Finding hope through words
During another session, participants reflected on hope and gratitude. The room is filled with positive energy, dreams and hopes for the future.
One participant shared:
“I’m hopeful for peace and no more war. I’m hopeful for a better future for my kids.”
We also explored how women shape our lives. One participant spoke about her first British friend in the UK, who introduced her to new experiences, including camping, visiting beaches and going hiking activities she might never have tried alone.
These workshops reminded us that poetry is more than writing. It is a way to share experiences, celebrate connections, express hopes and create a sense of belonging.
Through every story and conversation, participants showed the power of words to bring people closer together.
We hope to have more regular poetry workshops next year 2027.
Lovely photos by Evolve Music.
This event is part of our Lockleaze Together project – creating more opportunities for our community to connect, learn and contribute. Community Feasts, Community Ideals and Community Forum.
Thanks to The National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund and Bristol Impact Fund 3 from Bristol City Council who have supported this project.
