‘Human connection is what really matters’
Supporting refugee women in Tower Hamlets
June welcomed Refugee Week, a special time to celebrate the courage and resilience of refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants rebuilding their lives in our community.
It’s also a chance to shine a light on those who work tirelessly to support this journey.
One inspiring team member is Vimalamani. Her name means ‘pure jewel,’ which reflects the clarity and sparkle she brings to her role.
Vimalamani has been part of Globe Community Project for five years, ever since she started running weekly online gentle yoga and wellbeing discussions for asylum seeker, refugee, and migrant women during the COVID lockdown.
For Vimalamani, one powerful reminder stands out from her work: “Human connection is what really matters.” This belief is at the heart of the Touching Safe Ground programme she leads, offering yoga and English classes in a local doctor’s surgery, as well as yoga, chat, and creche sessions at a local asylum hostel for women and children.
What began as a small emergency response during an uncertain time has blossomed into a vibrant space where women can heal, learn, and build community.
She shares what inspires her most: “The resilience of the women and their determination to forge a new life for themselves, despite all the losses they have endured. I worked for many years with Palestinian refugees in the Middle East. I am grateful to be able to have a strong thread of continuity now with this work in our local community.”
Facilitating these sessions every Wednesday morning and Thursday afternoon is a highlight of the week for Vimalamani.
She sees firsthand the incredible effort the women make to attend, often travelling up to 1.5 hours each way. This commitment highlights what is truly important: human connection, community, and supporting people to heal and grow.
Why programmes like Touching Safe Ground matter:
Supporting programmes like TSG creates safe, welcoming environments where women who have faced unimaginable challenges can find friendship, healing, and hope.
Through yoga, language learning, and conversation, they gain tools and confidence to rebuild their lives, feel less isolated, and strengthen their wellbeing.
The work of Vimalamani and her colleagues sends a powerful message to every refugee woman: You are seen. You are valued. You are not alone.
How you can get involved:
If this Refugee Month has touched your heart, consider supporting Globe Community Project in any way you can. Whether through volunteering, donations, or simply helping to raise awareness, every bit of support helps build a stronger, kinder community.
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Want to hear more about the impact of our work and stories like Vimalamani’s? Or have the chance to find work that fits your values? Sign up to our monthly newsletter for updates, events, and ways to support our community:
Let’s keep building connection, compassion, and community together.