When I started researching my feature, I knew I needed to hear from charities to understand the support they offer to immigrants and if there are gaps in their assistance. Speaking with William Brook-Hart, a volunteer at the Southampton & Winchester Visitor Group, provided valuable perspectives on support efforts. Which you can read the full interview here: Voices of Change: William Brook-Hart on volunteering wth the Southampton & Winchester Visitor Group
William mentioned he’d be attending a protest in London that weekend, which, while not exclusively focused on immigration, covered related issues that people are actively fighting for today. I decided to join him, hoping to gain more insight and direction for my piece, believing it would deepen my understanding of the broader social issues linked to immigration.
London was charged with energy as three overlapping marches filled the streets, each addressing topics such as police custody deaths, far-right activism, and anti-racism counter-protests with figures like Jeremy Corbyn and Diane Abbott delivering powerful speeches.
The day was long and navigating London with all the camera equipment was exhausting, but every moment was worth it. I carried equipment across the city, capturing powerful images, passionate chants, and voices from all kinds of communities. People had travelled from places like Bournemouth, Hastings, and Bristol to stand together, each contributing to a larger cause. Witnessing this determination first-hand was genuinely inspiring.
Despite the fatigue from running around, chasing down interviews, and finding the perfect angles, it felt like a success. The experience reignited my motivation to give my best to this project. I’m determined to create a feature that captures these voices and stories with impact—a message that resonates and truly matters. Being part of this reminded me of the power of storytelling and why I’m committed to bringing these voices to light.
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