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By Marysa Dowling:

175

Shofa

Ashok’s Vision was founded by his younger sister Shofa to honour Ashok—a young man whose love for nature, play, and spirituality inspired others. The charity helps young people build resilience, create opportunities and connections, and nurture mental wellbeing.

Image by Marysa Dowling with Ashok's Vision and Newham Libraries.
176

Comfort & Jasmine

“There is natural talent and potential in all young people that simply needs nurturing. Without vision, there is no direction, and every young person should be supported to first realise their vision and then be helped to live it.” – Shofa

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Shofa & Saihan

“For me, freedom is the ability to tell our authentic stories and to hold space for healing. To reshape the narratives placed on us and to protect the truths and histories that often go unseen. Freedom means being able to speak without fear, to challenge silence, and to create space for others to do the same.” – Shofa

Image by Marysa Dowling with Ashok's Vision and Newham Libraries.
178

Zenab & Saihan

“Freedom also means standing with our community. Creating spaces where people feel connected, valued, and able to grow. By telling people’s truths and challenging misinformation, we create the conditions for healing and justice.” – Shofa

Photographer info:

Marysa Dowling

Marysa Dowling is a London-based artist of Irish descent whose practice, which has been described as thoughtful and playful, centres on human behaviour, relationships, social interaction and co-creation. Working with photography and other media, Marysa develops inter-community and cross-cultural conversations and collaborations, and has cultivated creative initiatives across Cuba, India, Ireland, Lebanon, London, Los Angeles and Mexico.

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