17-06-2025
Refugee women in Glasgow use art to share their stories
Asylum-seeking and refugee women in Glasgow are using creativity and community to support their mental health through an art workshop at the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA).
The workshop, part of a project led by the Mental Health Foundation, focused on helping participants express their personal stories through art.
Menesia Keister, moved to Glasgow from Namibia in 2019 (Image: Supplied)
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Menesia Keister, who moved to Glasgow from Namibia in 2019 and now works as a carer, said: "The Mental Health Foundation projects are like a home away from home.
"I can express my feelings there.
"I feel safe to share my thoughts and ideas.
"If it wasn't for Mental Health Foundation, I would have really struggled.
"I've lived in Glasgow for five years and I love it.
"The people are genuinely patient, caring, and kind, and I've made lots of good friends here.
"People from Glasgow are always happy to help – Glasgow makes the people, and the people make Glasgow."
The women's artwork has been transformed into a limited-edition series of postcards and a tote bag, both available for purchase.
The postcards and tote bag can be purchased from the Mental Health Foundation shop at
Funds raised will support future mental health projects for asylum seekers and refugees.
The women are part of Mental Health Foundation programmes in Glasgow that provide mental health education, and support and encourage community involvement.
The foundation says that asylum seekers and refugees are at greater risk of poor mental health due to trauma in their home countries, the journey to safety, and the asylum process.
Funds raised will be used to support mental health projects (Image: Supplied)
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Ghizala Avan, senior programmes manager at the Mental Health Foundation, said: "We'd like to say a huge thanks to the women for giving their talent and time to create these beautiful artworks representing the community.
"Community has great power to support good mental health and wellbeing by providing us with a sense of belonging, safety, support, and purpose.
"Through creative projects like these, we are reminded that mental health thrives when people come together, uplift one another, and build meaningful connections.
"As people move between places, leaving behind familiar communities and finding new ones, it becomes even more important for communities to be open, welcoming, and supportive of newcomers.
"We encourage everyone to take inspiration from these women's creations and reflect on how we can all help foster compassionate, supportive spaces where mental wellbeing is prioritised."
