In the heart of Neukölln, on Wednesday, 19th of June, the GSBTB family and local community gathered for a summer celebration. Significantly, this event coincided with World Refugee Week, a fact
deeply acknowledged throughout the night, as it was also a time to commemorate those who have had to leave their nations under dire circumstances and to provide channels of support and connection. On this night, the venue was bustling with laughter, chatter, the sound of instruments being tuned, and the wafting aroma of food on its way to being served—all important markers of a classic GSBTB community gathering. At Sommerfest, there were many activities showcasing the everyday programming offered weekly and monthly by GSBTB. This included pop quizzes from the English language cafe to test language skills, a vibrant crocheting circle by the Open Art Space, an Arabic music choir that first gathered and practised through the Open Music School, an Arabic writing and calligraphy station from the Arabic language cafe, food prepared by the Open Kitchen, poetry written and read-out by Rahmetullah Andan and Jamal Abasi as guests representing The Poetry Project, and the night came to an end with a DJ set from the Open Music Lab, to which everyone came to dance.
In celebration of this wonderful day of gathering and community, we asked a couple of questions about the presence and importance of community. GSBTB’s Programming Director Mine Nang, one of the organisers of this lovely event, discussed the importance of community gatherings and how integral they are to GSBTB.
Can you introduce yourself and describe your role within GSBTB and this community?
My name is Mine Nang and I am the Programming Director at GSBTB. My role involves overseeing our programs, projects, and activities, and bringing these together through community gatherings. These gatherings are literally a place where the community can come together, celebrate themselves, and their achievements, and foster a sense of belonging.
In your opinion, what makes community gatherings so essential for the GSBTB community?
Each activity or project we run has fostered its own little community over the years. Community gatherings are essential because they bring these smaller groups together, opening our doors to interested people, the neighbourhood, and like-minded organisations. It provides a space for these groups to interact and share their experiences, like our poetry project.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being part of a community that values and celebrates together?
Celebrations are important rituals that remind us of the importance of community, caring for one another, and sharing joy, pain, and food. Often, we get so involved in our everyday lives that we forget to step back and appreciate the bonds, friendships, and kinships we have created. These gatherings allow us to show and feel gratitude and love.
As Programming Director, what are some key elements that go into planning and organising a community gathering like this one?
Food and drinks are essential, but programming is also crucial. We consider whether there’s a theme or a specific occasion, or if we’re just coming together. There’s always an element of uncertainty and spontaneity, so it’s important to check in with the vibe and the pulse of the evening.
How do you ensure that community gatherings and events remain representative of the community’s needs, such as jamming with instruments, language games, and kids’ activities?
Each gathering is different. Sometimes, it’s about representing the projects, like our last event. In March, we focused on Nowruz and new beginnings, making it less about the projects and more about the broader community.
Can you share your thoughts on why incorporating a DJ set or other performances by project managers and volunteers is important for the event?
One of our running projects is the Open Music Lab (OML). Incorporating performances like a DJ set from OML is essential because our community loves to dance. It’s a freeing experience for many, and they feel comfortable taking up space and expressing themselves in our gatherings.
Lastly, what were your goals for the Community Gathering event, and how have gatherings such as these impacted your life?
As a programming director, due to the nature of my role, I do not get to be close to the projects and the community without putting in effort. Therefore, seeing people smiling and enjoying themselves, and receiving feedback about how people’s lives have been impacted positively by all the projects is very rewarding and greatly affects my life.
Gathering as a community for celebration and support has been a cornerstone of GSBTB’s history and will continue to shape its future. These gatherings not only honour the diverse backgrounds and achievements of its members but also strengthen the bonds within the community. By coming together regularly, GSBTB fosters an environment of mutual support, cultural exchange, and shared experiences, ensuring that every member feels valued and connected. This tradition of communal celebration and support is essential for building resilience and solidarity, guiding GSBTB as it grows and evolves.