Join us in celebrating East and Southeast Asian Women in the UK – shattering stereotypes, breaking boundaries, and reclaiming our power!
Identity Unbound is an International Women’s Day Celebration that uplifts and empowers women from East and Southeast Asian communities in the UK. Let’s come together, share stories, and build a stronger community. Register here or through the link in our bio: bit.ly/SEEAWAwomensday
Here’s our powerhouse lineup:
Panel Discussion: Navigating identity and belonging as an ESEA immigrant in the UK A discussion on what it means to be an ESEA woman living in the UK and all the complexities that come with it. Our speakers:
Eileen Wada Willett – Founder, East Asian Girl Gang
Silfana Nasri – PhD researcher
Anna Chan – Founder, Asian Leadership Collective
Moderated by Amanda Lago, SEEAWA
Presentation: Your Role in Democracy Learn how to vote, get involved, and make your voice heard with Shout Out UK
Talk and Q&A: Understanding Your Rights & Responsibilities Legal insights on citizenship, dual nationality & your rights as immigrants with Dias Solicitors
Surviving domestic abuse can be a lonely, isolating experience – even more so for migrant women who are navigating life miles away from their families and support systems.
Despite limited resources, SEEAWA strives to provide guidance and support to East and Southeast Asian migrant women who have experienced domestic violence. Our services range from befriending, assistance in form filling, to providing tailored guidance and advice. Throughout all this, our aim is simple: to let our women know that they are not alone.
Jane*, a migrant woman based in Hackney, faced abuse at the hands of her then-partner. To make matters worse, her abuser had also been hurting their son. After their child reported the abuse at school, social services came to check in on them, and at the same time, Jane reached out to SEEAWA’s Women’s Support Officer, Lyn. Even as Jane experienced communication problems with her social worker, Lyn stood by Jane, checking in on her, giving her advice, and encouraging her to take the necessary steps to support herself and her child. Lyn also added Jane to a chat group with other women who have similar experiences of domestic violence, and together, the women drew strength from each other.
“Miss Lyn made me feel that I am not alone in my battle, that there is always someone out there who is always willing to help. There is always hope.” – Jane,* service user since 2024
Like Jane, Maria* reached out to Lyn at a crucial point in her life. After experiencing repeated financial, sexual, and physical abuse from her husband, things came to a head for Maria when, during a particularly violent argument, she was forced to run for her life out into the cold winter rain. After being rescued by the police and given shelter by her local council, Maria contacted Lyn, who guided her through the process of applying for the migrant victims of domestic abuse concession (MVDAC), and later on for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). As Maria proudly shared, the ILR application she lodged with Lyn’s help was successful.
For migrant women with No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF), applying for the concession and later, ILR, is crucial for them to be able to access benefits and get the support they need as they heal from domestic violence. But it is undoubtedly a long and tedious process, marked by re-traumatisation and anxiety – especially if they are working with social workers who often don’t understand their cultural background. With our Women’s Support Officer checking in on them at every step, our beneficiaries get the confidence and encouragement they need to advocate for themselves.
“I appreciated that there is a person who is willing to help all the time,” Jane shared. “Miss Lyn made me feel that I am not alone in my battle, that there is always someone out there who is always willing to help. There is always hope.”
SEEAWA successfully led the delivery of the Leadership Training Programme as part of the Rise and Lead (R&L) project, funded by the London Community Foundation. While SEEAWA was responsible for the leadership training component, Kanlungan managed the domestic violence modules within this R&L project partnership. The programme leveraged the expertise of the Women’s Resource Centre (WRC)’s Feminist Leadership Training facilitators, supporting a cohort of domestic violence survivors whom SEEAWA guided through various stages of their journey. These women came from diverse backgrounds, and the programme provided a unique opportunity for empowerment and growth. As part of SEEAWA’s involvement, I had the privilege of attending the training alongside other female-led organisations.
Embarking on this journey felt like setting sail into uncharted waters: exciting, yet slightly daunting. Transitioning from the structured corridors of the corporate world to the dynamic nonprofit sector, I was eager to embrace this experience of lifelong learning.
From the outset, the programme offered a Deep Dive into Feminist Leadership, blending theory with personal reflection and interactive exercises. We explored topics such as feminism, intersectionality, emotional intelligence, and power dynamics: each session designed to challenge traditional leadership models and foster a transformative, inclusive approach.
One of the most enlightening sessions focused on Unconscious Bias Interrupted. We examined the origins of unconscious bias, its manifestation in the workplace, and strategies to challenge and interrupt these biases. A key exercise involved evaluating our inner circle, similar to the children’s “birds/animals/flowers” game, but applied to our non-family networks. I was chuffed to discover that I was the only person in my cohort with complete diversity in this circle. However, the overall lack of diversity within the group was a stark reminder of how our networks are shaped by systemic biases in areas such as education, gender, race, religion, age, and sexuality. This exercise underscored the effort required to ensure genuine inclusivity in our spaces.
The session on Burnout: Signs, Impact, Prevention resonated deeply with me. Burnout was not just a theoretical concept; it was my reality, a catalyst for my transition from the corporate sector to the non-profit world. The session illuminated the relentless pressures, unspoken expectations, and toll of overwork that so many of us endure. It validated the importance of rest, resilience, and sustainable activism; principles that are foundational to SEEAWA’s work and integrated into our organisation’s DNA.
Power: Reclaiming and Redefining. Our discussions on Power were equally transformative. Coming from a patriarchal, male-dominated career environment, I found it essential to reframe how we view power. In feminist leadership, power is non-traditional, shared, collective, and rooted in care. This session reaffirmed the power we already hold, giving us the space to embrace it in a feminist light. It was an opportunity to unlearn ingrained hierarchies and adopt leadership models that uplift rather than oppress.
The Values and Organisational Culture session was especially meaningful in my role at SEEAWA, reinforcing our commitment to ethical leadership. This session highlighted the importance of transparency, care, and collective accountability; principles that distinguish SEEAWA. It also strengthened our approach to supporting whistleblowers within the nonprofit sector, empowering individuals to champion integrity and accountability. This session provided valuable insights that will help strengthen our ongoing work in justice and equity, while the conversations with my feminist peers aligned deeply with SEEAWA’s values of transparency, collaboration, and intersectionality. It was both reassuring and invigorating to see that the challenges we face are shared, and so too are the solutions.
The Impact of Feminist Leadership Trainingon my role at SEEAWA has been profound. It has equipped me with practical tools and analytical skills, enabling me to lead with empathy, inclusivity, and adaptability. The programme’s focus on intersectionality has deepened my understanding of the diverse experiences within our community, enhancing our advocacy efforts.
Feedback from participants of the R&L Cohort echoed my sentiments:
“This is one of the best training programmes I have ever attended. The content was delivered in a way I could absorb and relate practically. I learnt new techniques to be reflective and assertive, in a digestible way. Could do a deep dive into the ‘power’ section,it made me relook at past situations and behaviours differently.”
“The training was brilliant and provided useful tools to tackle issues and concerns of women who aspired to be leaders in their own capacities. I am truly grateful to the organisers and facilitators of the training.”
One key takeaway from the R&L cohort was the importance of Creating Sustainable Learning that extends beyond the training room. This programme wasn’t just about individual growth; it empowered participants to reinvest their newly gained skills into their own communities. By providing opportunities for these women to lead on causes that resonate deeply with them, we are fostering a ‘pay it forward’ ethos. This ripple effect ensures that the lessons learned will reach even more women, creating lasting impact and encouraging the next generation of feminist leaders to rise.
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Work
Due to changes in our partnership with Kanlungan, SEEAWA will not be continuing with the second round of leadership training under the R&L project. SEEAWA will try its best to look for other resources and partners and do everything in its power to continue the leadership programme for women. This programme has offered women survivors of domestic violence a powerful opportunity to reclaim their power in a supportive, empowering space. For those interested in similar training, we encourage you to connect directly with the WRC to explore further opportunities. I wholeheartedly recommend the WRC’s Feminist Leadership Training Programme. It’s more than just a course; it’s a transformative experience that empowers you to lead with authenticity and purpose.
Reflecting on my own journey from the corporate sector to the nonprofit world, this training has been a beacon, guiding my transformation. It has reinforced SEEAWA’s commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability; principles that are vital as we navigate the complexities of social change.
Until next time, keep learning, keep leading, and keep championing change
– Anna, Operations & Programme Manager, SEEAWA
Note: The Women’s Resource Centre is currently accepting applications for the Spring/Summer 2025 cohorts. Apply by February 23rd to embark on this enriching journey.
SEEAWA is made up of a small (but mighty) team of ESEA women from with diverse backgrounds and experience but who share similar values: the importance of community, making the invisible visible – recently meeting MP Annaliese Dodds to discuss solutions to the challenges affecting women and girls, listening, spas (thank you Hackney Sauna — Community Sauna Baths ) and good food (we recommend MR JI Asian Restaurant Camden) ; supporting others, our team and ourselves. People solve problems, not policies or laws; and frontline community groups and organisations are able to more swiftly respond to spotting challenges and finding solutions. And the beneficiaries we support know the challenges they face and are co-participants in navigating their way to solutions.
We support ESEA women navigating issues that are affecting their everyday lives from navigating oppression, racism and domestic abuse that impacts their work, home and health in various ESEA languages.
We want ESEA women to thrive, flourish and lead lives that are full and rich of limitless possibilities. What might that look like? We have started a leadership training programme so that women can tell their own stories and build on developing their skills to shape public opinions and political will. As well as frontline services, research, advocacy and lobbying are key parts of our organisation to help ESEA women be visible, rise and empower themselves and others.
We are also non-hierarchical. Can you guess what this even means? The philanthropy sector is riddled with gatekeeping, lack of information and power restricted. We hope to challenge and change this but this means starting internally. If you work in an organisation with innovative ways that leads to greater power-sharing, let us know!
Networking and developing relationships with people are key to change Vivienne Hayes from the Women’s Resource Centre (WRC) kindly invited Selma Taha from Southall Black Sisters and SEEAWA to participate in a roundtable discussion with MP Anneliese Dodds who is currently Minister of State (Development), and Minister of State (Minister for Women and Equalities). Meeting people and working together leads to greater power. Alone as a charity you may go fast, but together you go far.
Be bold and when there is an opportunity, grab it Vivienne mentioned that it was from seeing a spare chair next to Anneliese at a separate event, that she sat down and started talking to her. This lead to emails, discussions and eventually a meeting.
What do you see? Share it & develop it When the racist attacks occurred in the Summer of 2024, we noticed that politicians were inviting male leaders from BAME community groups to speak but there was a significant absence of BAME women leaders voices and presence. That led us to sharing how the racist riots affected ESEA women in our community (one of whom was pregnant!). But we also realised we need to help support ESEA to become leaders and to equip them with the tools to change the world. We are excited to develop further women leadership programmes for our community.
Have 1-2 clear asks of what you want from a meeting with a politician We asked for: an independent national women’s fund to address the funding crisis, and explained how an endowment fund would lead to greater sustainable support and change for the women’s sector; and for MP’s to think of and reach out to women’s groups and BAME women’s organisations as well as mens.
Advocacy is ongoing Meeting an MP is just one small cog. Next month, Sarah Reid will take on the role of Advocacy and Campaigns Manager to help develop this part of our organisation. Are you a BAME charity or women’s charity looking to network or develop skills in advocacy and campaigning and want some advice? If so, reach out to us! If you are experienced in changing policies, let us know your tips of what really works.
SEEAWA stands against the far-right riots and acts of racist violence that are currently spreading fear across the UK, especially among migrant communities. In the face of this right-wing terrorism, we reiterate: racism and Islamophobia are unacceptable and have no place in our society.
Migrants and people of colour already face so much precarity in this country where creating a hostile environment for immigrants has been encoded into policy. This precarity has only intensified now as migrant accommodations, residences, businesses, community spaces, and places of worship are being targeted by these ongoing terrorist acts.
We stand together with migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and people of colour as they bear the brunt of these racist attacks.
We urge the government to deploy all resources available to end the riots and ensure the safety of vulnerable communities. More importantly, we implore the government to undo the policies and systems that have allowed this hatred towards migrants to take root and proliferate.
We call upon the public to speak out against racism in whatever ways they can, whether it’s joining a counter-protest, offering support to those who need it, or having conversations to challenge racist and bigoted ideology.
If you want to join an action to protest the far right riots, follow @standuptoracismuk for information. If you need support in light of these attacks, do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
We are an inclusive organisation improving the lives of ESEA women and children in the UK.
We are currently looking for trustees to volunteer help support our organisation, shape our work and strategic direction.
We are looking to broaden and diversify our Board’s composition and we are keen to hear from creative and strategic thinkers who can bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the Board. Trustees should demonstrate an understanding and commitment to making a difference to women and their dependents in the ESEA UK community.
Our Board of Trustees has legal responsibility for all aspects of the organisation. If you have a charity, legal, financial, women’s rights or fundraising background we would love to hear from you.
The role entails:
Taking part in creating and reviewing our charity strategy
Helping to ensure that the charity operates and uses best practices within the legal, financial and regulatory requirements of a charitable organisation
Helping to optimise the relationship between the board of trustees and the staff, and ensure that the policy and practices of the charity are in keeping with its aims
The role of a Trustee is a good opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills. The role is ideal for someone who wishes to give back to the community and who has an interest in providing and developing support for women in the ESEA community.
We provide guidance, background information and support in meetings for all new trustees. Trustees are also encouraged to participate in available training opportunities.
If you would like to become a trustee and join our organisation, please email us at info@seeawa.org.uk
The Southeast and East Asian Women’s Association (SEAWA) held its first annual general assembly last 18 June 2023 in London. The event was attended by women from various parts of Southeast and East Asia, including representatives from Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, China, and Hong Kong. The assembly was held to celebrate its registration as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation as well as to discuss women’s issues, explore opportunities for collaboration, and elect the association’s board members.
With the AGM’s theme: Women Emancipation in the Context of Southeast and East Asian migration, panelists from Malaysia, Philippines, and Hong Kong gave their insight and personal experience as a migrant and as a woman and how taking part in women’s emancipation movement impacts their lives.
SEEAWA was very honoured to have support with a speech from Merlene Toh Emerson, a former solicitor and co-founder of Chinese Liberal Democrats, and a solidarity message Myla Arceno, the first Filipino Mayor in the UK.
Joyce Mak and R Sin from ESEA Sisters talked about their life experiences, particularly in identifying when and how they feel emancipated as a woman. They also shared how important it is to be part of an organisation, in their case, being part of ESEA Sisters, especially how the formation of the organisation helped with the mental health and feeling of the community during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Yvette Mercado, a trustee of SEEAWA and a member of the support group for Filipino mothers in the UK, Mumshie braved the sharing of her personal experience as a single mother in the UK raising her child all by herself. She also shared the challenges she faces being an immigrant without any family support and not being able to provide for her child and her family back home. Yvette is one of the community leaders who selflessly shares her time and knowledge with the community to encourage more women.
One of the panellists is from the Malaysian Community and a former chair of a charity for women with disabilities, Jane Chelliah. Jane defined emancipation for the participants, mentioning that women’s emancipation is deep and magnanimous. She talked about how even in contemporary times, women’s emancipation is a continuous struggle, especially behind closed doors. Jane emphasises that women’s emancipation starts within.
All the way from Scotland, we had Kimi Jolly who discussed the importance of women’s emancipation in contemporary contexts and its importance to the new younger generation. Kimi has broad experience in working with migrant women, especially from Asian backgrounds in Scotland. According to Kimi, this experience showed her that women’s emancipation is defined and practised differently in each generation. She encouraged everyone, especially those with fewer risks to face to continue advocating for women’s rights and emancipation for those more vulnerable and marginalised. Kimi encouraged everyone to keep on advocating.
The last speaker attended online. Iris Inoceto, a political asylum in Paris, France. She is a former chairperson of Bahaghari Iloilo, an LGBTQI+ national democratic organisation based in the Philippines. She was tagged as a terrorist and a communist by the Philippine government causing her to flee. Iris talked about the importance of a comprehensive and inclusive mass movement for women covering the issues of women, children, and those identified as women. Using powerful visual presentations, Iris pointed out the success of the women’s movement and the challenges women activists face under the feudal patriarchal society.
During the assembly, participants engaged in lively discussions and gave their opinion on topics such as women’s rights, gender-based violence, and economic empowerment. The attendees also shared their experiences and concerns about issues facing women in their respective countries and regions.
In addition, the assembly allowed for networking opportunities and the formation of partnerships to work towards shared goals of promoting gender equality and empowering women.
Proudly showcasing their talent and storytelling through songs are Shika from Malaysia and Itchie and Clair, members of Anakbayan UK and Gabriela UK respectively.
The success of this year’s assembly lays the foundation for future events and a continuous effort towards empowering women in Southeast and East Asia. There will be organised events on women’s emancipation as well as the faces of oppression and exploitation of women. These activities aim to bring a deeper understanding of the issues affecting Southeast and East Asian women in the UK and form a solidarity amongst the group that will eventually give birth to safe accommodation for the victims of abuse and trafficking.
Today, I stand before you to shed light on the powerful topics of women’s emancipation, my personal experience as a single mother, and the painful reality of being a victim of sexual abuse. These are significant aspects of my life that have shaped my understanding of the world and my unwavering commitment to advocating for change.
Certainly, the challenging moments of being an undocumented single mother with no recourse to public funds have been numerous and overwhelming. I am experiencing;
1. Financial Struggles: Without access to public funds or government assistance, the financial burden falls solely on my shoulders. I find it extremely challenging to provide for my child’s basic needs, such as food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare. It has been a constant battle to make ends meet and ensure a stable environment for me and my son. For 7 years we have been moving to different accommodations and have experienced homelessness multiple times which impacted my son’s mental health and well-being.
2. Limited Employment Opportunities: Due to my undocumented status, I have encountered significant barriers in finding legal employment which led to a cycle of low-paying jobs, and underemployment. The fear of being discovered and facing legal consequences can further exacerbate the already stressful situation.
3. Emotional and Mental Stress: The constant worry and uncertainty associated with living as an undocumented single mother with no recourse to public funds took a toll on my emotional and mental well-being. The fear of deportation, the pressure of providing for my child, and the isolation resulting from my circumstances lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression.
4. Legal Challenges: Navigating the complex legal system without access to legal aid or resources can be an overwhelming task. I had difficulties understanding my rights, protecting myself from exploitation, or seeking legal remedies when necessary. The fear of being reported or detained can hang over my head, adding to the burden I carry every day.
I often rely on the support of charities, friends, and community organisations to meet our basic needs and overcome these obstacles. I believe it is essential to recognise these struggles and advocate for inclusive policies that provide a safety net for the most vulnerable members of society.
The emancipation of women is a cause that has been fought for tirelessly throughout history. It is a battle for gender equality, empowerment, and the recognition of women’s rights in all aspects of life. The fight for emancipation seeks to break down societal barriers that limit women’s opportunities, whether in education, employment, or decision-making positions. It aims to challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes that confine women to specific roles or undermine their capabilities.
As a single mother, I have experienced firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with raising a child independently. It is a journey marked by resilience, strength and an unwavering commitment to providing the best life possible for my child. Single mothers often face societal stigma, financial hardships, and emotional struggles, but we are also a testament to the incredible strength that lies within women. We learn to balance our responsibilities, nurture our children, and pursue our own dreams with unwavering determination.
However, my journey as a single mother is intertwined with another painful reality – being a victim of sexual abuse. It is an experience that no one should endure, yet it is far too common in our society. Sexual abuse not only inflicts physical and emotional harm but also robs victims of their sense of security, trust, and self-worth. Survivors of sexual abuse face tremendous challenges on their path to healing, but they are also resilient individuals who find strength in their vulnerability. It is crucial that we create safe spaces and support systems that empower survivors and work towards preventing such heinous acts from happening in the first place.
“Combining these experiences, I have come to realise that the emancipation of women is not merely a goal to strive for, but a necessity for a just and equitable society. It is a call to action for each and every one of us to challenge the status quo, to stand up against injustice, and to support and uplift one another.”
Let us foster an environment where women are encouraged to dream, pursue their passions, and contribute their invaluable perspectives to all aspects of life. Let us create a society where single mothers are given the respect and support they deserve, acknowledging their strength and resilience. And let us ensure that victims of sexual abuse are heard, believed, and provided with the resources and support necessary to heal and rebuild their lives.
Together, we can create a world where women are truly emancipated, where their voices are amplified, and where their rights are protected. Let us embark on this journey of progress, compassion, and understanding, for the betterment of our society and the generations to come.
