Empowering refugees through creative expression
In September and October 2024, the SAWA Collective, a non-profit organization supporting young adult asylum seekers in the Netherlands, partnered with the Royal Talens Foundation to host a series of empowering creative workshops for women residing in an asylum seekers’ centre in Amsterdam.
Set your mind free
Approximately 10 participants came together over the course of four weeks to explore the art of pattern making and color theory under the guidance of the interior architect and design studio, Studio Lakayan. Using papers, pencils, and markers provided by Royal Talens, the women engaged in hands-on activities that allowed them to tap into their inherent creativity and find moments of respite from their daily challenges.
"This course helps me to meditate, and set my mind free of everyday struggles," shared one participant, highlighting the therapeutic benefits of the workshops.
The partnership between SAWA Collective and the Royal Talens Foundation aimed to foster a sense of community, build trust, and provide much-needed emotional and psychosocial support for the young adult asylum seekers. By engaging in meaningful creative pursuits, the participants were able to rediscover their inner strengths, develop self-confidence, and forge connections with one another.
Special thanks to
Bronsvoort Blaak Architecten BNA, the architects behind Royal Talens' new building, generously sponsored the entire project and supplied the Royal Talens materials used during the workshops. This collaborative effort showcased the power of cross-organizational support in empowering vulnerable communities and enhancing their integration into Dutch society.
As SAWA Collective continues its mission to build a community, create trust-based relationships, and provide holistic support for young adult asylum seekers, initiatives like this creative workshop series stand as a testament to the transformative potential of art, compassion, and partnership.
Supported projects
In a heartwarming collaboration this October, the Royal Talens Foundation provided art materials to Le Nid d'Artistes ("The Artist's Nest"), enabling 30 young artists to bring their imaginative worlds to life through creative workshops in Switzerland. The initiative specifically reached children from modest backgrounds, including young refugees from countries like Iran and Ukraine, who might otherwise not have access to quality art education.
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In November 2024, the Royal Talens Foundation and Stichting Lezen Leren Groeien (Reading, Learning, Growing Foundation) embarked on a remarkable journey to empower creativity among young minds. This collaboration, which took place over three sessions on the 2nd, 9th, and 16th of November, brought together 35 enthusiastic participants from primary and secondary schools.
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In the small town of Madona, Latvia, where opportunities are often limited, a donation of art materials from the Royal Talens Foundation has ignited an unexpected creative renaissance at the Jānis Simsons Madona Art School. With a population of just 7,200, this rural community is home to Latvia's next generation of artistic talent.
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