Visits & Workshops
This project provided opportunities for over 40 women of diverse South Asian Heritage in the Kingston area to gradually re-engage in a programme of in-person activities following long periods of isolation during the lockdowns and restrictions in place due to the Covid-19 pandemic. We shared our experiences of celebrating our diverse cultural festivals during this uncertain time, when we had to rely on social media to wish friends and family, share family recipes and reconnect with nature through planting.
shared experience
We shared recipes and food to celebrate our diverse experiences of celebrating our diverse cultural festivals.
Pandemic
Our project journey began in September 2021, at a time when we were still cautious about going out and mixing with others.
workshops
For many it was the first time they had been out of their homes since the start of lockdown in March 2020. During our early workshops there was a feeling of joy tinged with nervousness.
Festivals
We learnt about each other’s festivals, sharing childhood memories and recipes which had been in our families for generations. We realised that food was at the heart of each festival with ingredients reflecting seasonal and regional produce.
Visits
We visited Hogsmill Community Garden, Kew Gardens and RHS Wisley, where we acquired new gardening skills, had queries answered by professionals and shared our planting experiences.
Wellbeing
The project activities helped to enhance our wellbeing, make new friends, share new experiences and build on our lockdown interest of growing edibles.
Special thanks
We are grateful to Hogsmill Community Garden, Kew Gardens and RHS Wisley for welcoming us and sharing their professional expertise. We would also like to thank Saheli, our project partner.
