In June 2016, hundreds of refugees, asylum seekers and supporters gathered in Nairobi to mark World Refugee Day amid a tense political climate in Kenya. The event took place against a backdrop of conflict and displacement across the region, as well as growing uncertainty for refugees following government plans to close Dadaab and Kakuma camps and increasingly hostile public rhetoric that portrayed refugees as a burden or security threat.

Rather than focusing solely on the politics of the moment, this series documents how those most affected chose to respond. The photographs move from the public space of speeches and advocacy to scenes of cultural performance, celebration and everyday interaction. Traditional music and dance, community participation, portraits of children and families, and the sharing of food all become expressions of identity, resilience and belonging.

The selection deliberately balances the political context with human experience. While the event served as a platform to call for protection and inclusion, the images emphasise the people behind the debate: individuals and communities asserting their dignity, preserving their cultures and creating moments of joy despite uncertainty about their futures. Together, the photographs offer a record of solidarity and a reminder that refugee stories extend far beyond the narratives often imposed upon them.