Friday 20th June 2025 4PM-7PM

Join us at River Nile School for a special World Refugee Day screening of Reclaimed Voices, a powerful documentary produced by the ASPYA Foundation in 2024. This film follows the transformative journey of Sabir Banek, a young man with lived experience in the youth justice system, as he finds employment, embraces his faith, and redefines his future.

Reclaimed Voices aims to inspire by showcasing real-life examples of loss, redemption, and positive change. It challenges the often negative and one-dimensional media portrayal of the South Sudanese community, highlighting the strength and potential within our communities.

By sharing powerful stories, the documentary fosters understanding, breaks down stereotypes, and encourages dialogue that leads to lasting reform in justice and rehabilitation efforts.

This screening is part of our Refugee Week 2025 events, celebrating the hopes and dreams of our community and how River Nile School supports individuals in achieving their aspirations.

Following the screening, there will be a community panel and discussion to reflect on the film's themes and share insights.

Event is FREE but ticket bookings are essential.

Monday 16th June 2025 4PM-5:30PM

Join us for a special Refugee Week event in partnership with The Chestnut Tree Bookshop & Café and River Nile School.

📍 The Chestnut Tree Bookshop, 542 Barkly Street, West Footscray

Come and celebrate the strengths, resilience, and stories of refugee communities in a warm, welcoming space. This free event will feature a book reading by students from River Nile School — a senior secondary school that empowers young women from refugee backgrounds through inclusive, supportive education.

Expect an inspiring afternoon with:
● Book readings
● Interactive activities
● Q&A session
● Delicious afternoon tea

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect, learn, and honour refugee voices during Refugee Week. All are welcome — we’d love to see you there!

Thursday 19th June 2025

📍 Level 3, River Nile School

Step into a space transformed by storytelling, culture and courage as we celebrate the powerful voices of our students in the ‘Our Stories’ Exhibition.

Each student will share one personal artefact — a piece of who they are, where they’ve come from, or what matters most to them. From treasured objects and traditional dress to poems, dance, film and art, the exhibition will honour the incredible diversity, creativity, and lived experiences of our school community.

We will open with a special morning tea and ceremony at 11:00AM, before opening the exhibition to our families, friends, and our wider community from 11:30AM to 1:15PM and there will be a special lunch from 1:15-2PM.

Come walk with us through stories of journey, identity, resilience and hope.

All are welcome.

This is a FREE event but RSVPs are essential.

Wednesday 18th June 2025 12:30PM-1:15PM

Refugee Week Special Assembly
Join us for a vibrant and meaningful Refugee Week Special Assembly on Wednesday, 18 June from 12:30–1:15 PM.

This special event will feature song, dance, and a powerful celebration of the strength, resilience, and contributions of people from refugee backgrounds.

There will also be a special announcement—one not to be missed! It’s a unique opportunity for our school community to come together in solidarity, creativity, and shared humanity. Don’t miss it!