The multi-talented Ikram Abdi Omar was born in Stockholm to parents of Somali descent, and moved to the UK when she was eight. She models for brands such as Burberry, is studying biomedical science at university, has her own YouTube channel and made fashion history when she appeared on the cover of Vogue Arabia with fellow hijab wearers Halima and Amina Aden. “I walk with refugees because, while we are all on different paths, life calls us to get to know, love and embrace each other. When we walk together, we can accomplish anything.”

Ayanna Witter-Johnson is a singer-songwriter and cellist whose work combines classical and alternative R&B. Born in London and of Jamaican heritage, she has been commissioned by Counterpoints Arts to record songs celebrating Refugee Week. “We Cannot Walk Alone invokes a fundamental truth in us that, as humans, we survive and thrive as a result of communities. No human arrives on this planet and survives alone. We must nurture the modern-day communities we find ourselves in and especially those who find themselves in danger. We are one global family and must look beyond our personal needs.”

Yasmin Khan is a bestselling author and broadcaster and is passionate about sharing people’s stories through food, informed by her work as a human rights campaigner. “Over the last year, the pandemic has highlighted the interconnected nature of our world and our common humanity. I’m supporting Refugee Week because I believe in our global community and the collectivism we need to employ to bring about a more equal world for all of its inhabitants. A world where the place in which you are born does not determine the opportunities which you are given.”

The author and poet Michael Rosen is one of Britain’s best-loved writers and performance poets for children and adults. He is professor of children’s literature at Goldsmiths, University of London, a former Children’s Laureate and a first generation child of a Polish family. “We never know when we might end up on a hospital ward or have to pack our bags to take our family away from danger. At any point, our lives could depend on the kindness of strangers. It’s up to us to look after each other, and do the small things to make the world a fair and safe place for everyone – and I mean everyone.”

Hossam Fazulla is a film-maker, producer and researcher from Cairo whose work highlights human rights and social justice issues. He came to the UK in 2018 to study, and has been unable to return to his homeland because of fears for his safety. “We cannot walk alone. We are all taking the same route, headed in the same direction, and there is space for us all. Remember that picture of the earth as a globe. It once helped us realise our oneness, kinship and our fragilities. Now, not so gentle reminders shout: ‘We are all on the same boat, fill the holes! Don’t let us sink!’”

Bishop of Croydon Jonathan Clark first encountered refugees who had come to the UK seeking asylum when he was chaplain at London Metropolitan University in 1997. He subsequently provided a home for the Hackney Migrant Centre in his parish, and contributes to the Church of England’s response to refuge and asylum. “All human beings are of equal and infinite worth, regardless of their wealth or ethnicity. Among refugees I have seen countless examples of extraordinary courage, tenacity, patience and kindness. It is an honour to offer what support I can on the long journey towards sanctuary.”

Maya Ghazal is a pilot, UNHCR goodwill ambassador and Syrian refugee, having fled her home in 2015. She is a fierce advocate for refugee rights, particularly concerning education. “I know what it means to be a refugee. I know that we are not numbers, but individuals with hopes and dreams, who have left everything behind to find safety, and who also have a lot to give. I wouldn’t have got where I am today without the help of the people who have welcomed and supported me here in Britain. We all have a part to play in creating change, and the smallest act of kindness can make a difference.”

Designer Maria Igwebuike moved to the UK from Nigeria in 2008, and launched Maria Callisto, an ethically sourced, sustainable and body positive lingerie label in 2019, supported by The Entrepreneurial Refugees Network. “There is strength in numbers and in order to make big changes we need to come together in unity and love. It’s a long journey to make alone. Luckily for you, there are seven billion people walking alongside you.”