We are hosting a special symposium on first day of the festival with speakers who work in mental health within the South Asian diaspora. It’s a chance to share knowledge, swap ideas, and talk openly about the unique challenges and opportunities around getting support in our communities.

Session 1

Theme: Mental health challenges encountered by the charities and the support they provide within their communities.

Panel Discussion: Representatives from three charities: 10 mins each

• CAREIF- Prof. Rachel Tribe
• PRT- Prof. Carmine Pariante
• Concerned for Mental Health- Lady Ghazala Hameed
• Moderated by Prof. Dinesh Bhugra
  ‍

Session 2

Theme: Exploring how mental health is affected of the professionals who work in the community and the people they support.

Panel Discussion: Professionals from a range of sectors, including special education teachers, art therapists, lawyers and police representatives. (TBC)

Panellist: Educational Psychologist/Service Provider, Archana Dixit, Zamiha Desai MBE (Founder Professional Asian Network)(10 min. to each speaker)

Moderated By: Dr Valsraj (15 min overall to introduce, coordinate and audience question)

‍

Session 3

Theme: Exploring the issues raised by the films and encouraging wider conversations about arts in mental health in the South Asian Diaspora.

Panellists:

• Kavi Shinra
• Rudrani
• Moderated By: Lady Ghazala Hameed

Short Film Screenings and Panel Discussion

• Relay- the Stolen Tales– 10 minutes
• American Fabric – 13 minutes

Panel Discussion with Filmmakers

• Ranjit Singh Shubh, Director (Relay, the Stolen Tales)
• Nyla Hazratjee, Director (American Fabric)