Samuel Hall held its inaugural annual lecture as  part of our MoU with the Aga Khan University. In collaboration with the Aga Khan University Graduate School of Media and Communication (GSMC), Institute for the Study of Muslim Civilisations (ISMC), our annual lecture facilitated conversations on the intersection of climate injustice and urban migration on cities in South Asia and East Africa. Chaired by our co-founder Nassim Majidi; the Speakers included, Professor Nausheen H. Anwar from Karachi Urban Lab, Peter Kasaija from Makerere University and Sanaa Alimia from ISMC . 

Professor Nausheen delved into how extreme heat and urban planning interplay in the unique contexts of cities in East Africa and South Asia. Drawing from Professor Anwars lecture, Peter Kasaija critically analysed the survival strategies of refugees who have moved from formal camps to Aura city. Following this Sanaa Alimia explored the issues of legal precarity and its impact on vulnerable populations.We also organised a photo exhibition with incredibly powerful photos from Mo Amin & Malcolm Muga to capture the unchanging reality of migration & displacement; followed by the documentary screening of ‘The Sound Man’. The photos and the films set the stage for a panel discussion on the power of media in shaping perspectives. Leading the dialogue was Salim Amin and Herve Nicolle, who delved into the significant role of photography and media in capturing and conveying authentic and ethical narratives.

A Media and Migration workshop was organised on the second day at GSMCs. As part of this, our storytelling and Communications Officer, Devyani Nighoskar led  a masterclass titled ‘Responsible Storytelling with People on The Move’. Drawing from our work she brought to light essential aspects such as gaze, positionality and safeguarding in reporting on people on the move.