We first visited Azraq - a refugee camp in Jordan for displaced Syrians - in 2014. We were shocked by the bleakness and determined to do what we could to create moments of joy and connection. 

Since then, we have visited the camp four times in total, created uplifting public artworks with the refugees and become involved with the isolated women who rarely leave their shelters. We have also held chocolate fountaineering and peace rock dipping events, a women only dance party  and workshops for embroidery, knitting and design development. See our one minute video here

The refugees we have met and worked with are spirited, independent and very hospitable people. They deserve a chance to raise their spirits and forget their past traumas, current challenges and uncertain future for a short while. 

We are proud that some of our ideas have 'caught on' and refugees have sent us messages and pictures of them starting to make their own artworks and hold their own Hope Circles (a safely held and hosted space to share whatever you are feeling).

We want to continue the relationship, visiting twice a year and developing ideas further. For example next time round we plan to convert the marketplace into a vibrant, coherent social space and train some of the refugees to be leaders of paint teams and Hope Circles.

This is a small intervention. It does not address the vast and complex problem of the region, it does not bring back the loved ones they have lost, but it does have a measurable impact on well being, it restores a sense of hope and possibility and creates new friendships and collaborations between the refugees. We think it is worthwhile and hope you do too.