We are Pompey: Shamila is backing the bid in the hopes it builds on existing spaces that celebrate culture

Portsmouth is bidding to become the 2029 City of Culture. Here we meet one of the people in the city backing the bid - and find out why Portsmouth is so special to them.

Shamila Dhana - Co-founder and Chair of Trustees at Portsmouth City of Sanctuary

After moving to the city more than 20 years ago for work, Shamila has since become a pillar of the community through her work supporting refugees or asylum seekers sent to live in Portsmouth and its surrounding areas by the UK Home Office.

Why Shamila is backing the bid

She said: “I’m supporting the bid because the city is very vibrant and welcoming of everyone. Whether you are here short-term, if you were born and raised here or if you’re a student - it’s a place where we can embrace all of our city’s culture and communities.

“It’s so important because we believe in the values the city presents which are values that celebrate culture and creative spaces where everyone can thrive. I back the bid because the city will be able to build on its existing spaces and events that bring everyone together by celebrating art, music, food and it will just keep getting better and better.”

Portsmouth in three words: Vibrant. Colourful. Welcoming.

Behind the Bio

Shamila co-founded City of Portsmouth Sanctuary in 2019, and has worked with countless displaced people to help integrate them into society. The not-for-profit organisation has a refugee hub, a female drop in, the Kitchen of Hope and provides English clasess and activities.

Fun facts about Shamila:

• Last year, Shamila cooked for 300 people in one day as part of Refugee Week.
• When she was at school, she was tasked to write a speech to Queen Elizabeth wishing her a happy birthday. She was filmed while reading out her well wishes and it was part of a huge celebration of the Queen’s 70th birthday.