On Thursday 10 April, we welcomed friends, partners, and members of the local community to the Fitzherbert Centre in Kemp Town, Brighton for a very special event. It was an evening of celebration, reflection, and new beginnings as we officially launched our first Impact Report, marked the start of our 20th anniversary celebrations, and said a fond farewell to our Director, Mel Steel.
The event brought together a vibrant mix of Voices in Exile staff and volunteers, service users, supporters, fundraisers, and representatives from local organisations working with refugees and migrants. It was a wonderful reminder of the strength and warmth of our community, and the collective commitment to creating a fairer, more welcoming society.
Guests heard speeches from departing Director Mel, Voices Chair Nick Scott-Flynn, and our new Director Alison Kelly. Mel’s speech struck a powerful chord, reflecting on the challenging social and political climate in which we work and why Voices’ mission – promoting justice, dignity, and inclusion for all – is more crucial than ever.
As well as being a moment to look back on our achievements over the past year and the past two decades, the evening was also about looking ahead. With Alison stepping into the role of Director, we are excited for the future and energised to continue growing and strengthening our support for refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants at risk across Sussex.
Printed copies of our new Impact Report were available for guests to take away, showcasing the difference our work – and the support of our wider community – has made over the past year. It was a proud moment for everyone involved.
The evening was made even more special by delicious food provided by the Real Junk Food Project.
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported this event. Here’s to the next chapter!
