Tees Valley of Sanctuary was officially launched at Teesside University during Refugee Week.  The event included a delicious international buffet and entertainment from local musicians, dancers and singers.   Jonathan Ellis gave an inspiring keynote speech and Pete Widlinski presented the aims and purpose of Tees Valley of Sanctuary. A range of creative activities took place including readings from Abingdon Primary school pupils including this brilliant true story from 11 year old refugee Saira about Libya. Many stories were shared and there were updates from different streams of sanctuary in Tees Valley:  Schools of Sanctuary,  Musicians of Sanctuary, and the Faith Groups of Sanctuary who promoted their document “I was a stranger”. Participants told us:

“I thought it was fantastic! Tees Valley is certainly a very special place.”

It was a very rich evening, full of powerful stories, great music and wonderful food and most of all a fantastic sense of welcome & hospitality.”

“It was a brilliant event, a good balance of stories why TVOS is needed;  ideas as to what could be done; inspiration where people were coming  from; hope for the future with those children; and excellent  entertainment (and food!).”

“Great event fabulous people!”

“It was spectacular and a real celebration of so much that is good on  Teesside.”

“Wonderful people. Wonderful evening.”

Photos: Thanks to Elvis Katoto
Independent Filmmaker – Social Media Expert
+44 7946 743283
[email protected]
www.ekatoto.co.uk
Twitter: @ekatoto
Facebook: @elviskatoto