This week, a powerful new initiative, MK ANSARS, has been launched to support Palestinian students and recent graduates from Gaza and the West Bank as they resettle and thrive in Milton Keynes.
Spearheaded by Kurshida Mirza, former High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire and British Empire Medal honoree, and Dr Nela Smolović Jones of The Open University, MK ANSARS unites Trubys Garden, Church of Christ the Cornerstone, and academics from The Open University and Durham University, with more partners joining soon.
Following Milton Keynes’ successful track record welcoming Syrian, Afghan, and Ukrainian communities, MK ANSARS will offer mentorship, friendship, and essential financial support, for housing, childcare, transport, and utility bills, empowering students to rebuild their futures in the heart of the UK.
Kurshida Mirza said: “We have a proud tradition in Milton Keynes of welcoming people fleeing persecution… ‘ANSARS’ symbolises the helpers in Medina who supported the Prophet’s migration - this is about community and compassion.”
Dr Nela Smolović Jones added: “These students are exceptionally capable people who, under different circumstances, would be leading their homelands. Milton Keynes will be enriched by their talent.”
The first cohort arrives this month: one PhD student exploring grassroots leadership in war-shattered communities, and four Master’s graduates in economics and education.
You can help by donating via: https://localgiving.org/fundraising/SupportingPalestinianFamiliesinMiltonKeynes
Contact for more information: nela.smolovic-jones@open.ac.uk / kurshidabmirza@gmail.com
