Grenfell anniversary: Bereaved family member releases photo series to rewrite the narrative around tragedy

It has now been 5 years since the Grenfell tragedy and to commemorate this, Feruza Afewerki has released her book: Gold & Ashes: Grenfell, healing through connection and community.

Her vision for Gold & Ashes was to create a space for the families who had lost loved ones and homes to share their stories. The book is a photo series from 56 survivors and reveals some of the most intimate and important stories within the community.

The Gold & Ashes project was created by Afewerki, a photographer, storyteller and a bereaved family member from the Grenfell Community. After losing her sister and their family, Afewerki wanted to help rewrite the narrative around Grenfell and rehumanise the tragedy through photography. 

“It’s important we tell our stories as much as we listen to them. I wanted to humanise Grenfell by inviting the community to talk about their brothers and sisters and neighbours, so that they could share their stories of loved ones, and in the process to feel seen and heard and know that we are not alone…” Feruza explained.

Alongside the release of the book was an event held at Hoxton Arches. The event included a photography exhibition, a panel discussion surrounding community and mental health, and live performances by Olivia Dean and Jords

All profits from the book go towards supporting The Grenfell Foundation.