From Bedroom Activism to Oxford's Streets: The rise of Help the World Oxford

In a city full of international students and diverse cultures, is there anyone speaking out for minorities? Law student, Ayesha Abbasi made it her goal to establish an Oxford-based organisation to do.

Images from @helptheworldoxford on Instagram, edited by Myself

Help The World Oxford (HTWO) is a Muslim-based, youth-led, non-profit organisation that is dedicated to combating Islamophobia, fostering unity among young individuals, raising funds for overlooked causes, addressing injustice, and providing community education. Primarily engaging on Instagram with a following of 1.9k, this organisation disseminates awareness through infographics addressing global issues. Additionally, their posts educate followers on actionable ways to contribute and make a positive impact. HTWO routinely organises demonstrations, exemplified by recent instances such as ceasefire rallies held in Oxford to express solidarity with Palestine.

The organisation currently has over 200 volunteers, but HTWO hasn’t always been this big.

Ayesha Abbasi, HTWO’s president and a first-year law student, is a dedicated activist and member of Oxford Sisters. Originally from Pakistan, she relocated to East Oxford at the age of 5, attending school in the area. Later, Abbasi moved to Central Oxford and observed stark disparities in education and literacy. Reflecting on her experiences, she remarked, "The [Magdalen] bridge separates people who will achieve and won't achieve," noting distinct shifts in treatment and diversity that made it feel like an entirely different world to her.

A sense of frustration arose from the absence of unified and inclusive activism in Oxford, particularly with a lack of representation for Muslims and people of colour. Abbasi shared that the first HTWO demonstration “started in my bedroom”, sparked by the lack of reaction in Oxford’s mainstream media in regards to the Beirut explosion. This event brought Oxford's universities and the community together for the first time, featuring speakers from different faiths. One attendee, who had lost family in the explosion, shared that it was the first time she felt seen and loved by the city of Oxford.

The goals of HTWO, as articulated by Abbasi, are to raise awareness of often overlooked world disasters and issues, fight injustice universally, and uplift and educate communities through workshops and discussion circles. Abbasi believes that “education is the key to battling ignorance.”

Additionally, HTWO aims to change negative stereotypes surrounding Muslims and serves as a unifying force for the community, addressing stereotypes against Muslims and people of colour. The organisation is intentionally diverse, comprising students and individuals from various backgrounds, creating an inclusive space for activism.

The overarching mission is to contribute to making the world better by promoting peace and kindness. Specifically, HTWO focuses on female empowerment, challenging misconceptions about Muslim girls and broadcasting the message that “Muslim girls are not oppressed [and] do not need to be liberated. Our voice has and will continue to help girls across the world.”

When asked about who the organisation is aiming to help, Abbasi had a straightforward answer; “in one sentence, anyone and everyone.” HTWO is dedicated to assisting all individuals without discrimination, engaging in activities such as rebuilding churches and aiding in the settlement of refugees in Oxford, underscoring their inclusive approach to offering support to anyone in need.

HTWO has achieved significant milestones, including raising over £100k from the community and being the first Muslim organisation to receive Oxfordshire Youth’s Community Champion award. They have been featured on BBC twice, addressed Parliament, and actively support refugees.

As a prominent force in Palestinian activism in Oxford for four years, they go beyond mourning by celebrating Palestinian culture during culture days. The organisation conducts various charity initiatives, such as bake sales, hikes, Ramadan walks, and street collections, with all work carried out by volunteers. Despite their impactful work, HTWO has never received external funding or training.

HTWO is comprised of volunteers from diverse backgrounds. Abbasi succinctly captures their motivation: "To simply put it, we just need more love and kindness in the world." The organisation aims to foster a sense of community and identity, embracing individuals regardless of their origins or chosen identities. HTWO provides a safe space for individuals to contribute to creating a world infused with love and kindness.

Knowing about HTWO is important because it provides a starting point for Oxford residents to engage in addressing global issues. The organisation symbolises a future where unity transcends race, gender, and background, promoting kindness, love, and empathy. It serves as a testament to the collective capacity of people working together for the greater good of humanity. HTWO’s existence is indebted to the dedication of its volunteers and young student admins who invest hours of their free time into researching and advancing the organisation's goals.

If you want to join HTWO and help out, you can contact them on Instagram(@helptheworldoxford) or email at helptheworldoxford@gmail.com.