“Being a refugee is NOT an identity , it is a forced situation that can happen to anyone, anywhere, it is just about luck” Nour Jarrouj
Baytna is a refugee led initiative using food, art and conversation to bring people together, creating meaningful connections between refugee and non refugee communities across the UK. Founded by Nour Jarrouj, Baytna means “our home” in Arabic and they aim to create a strong community, paid opportunities for refugees, and a platform to challenge stereotypes through culture and shared experiences.
“This is my grandma. May she rest in peace. She would teach us how to make food. So for me food always meant joy. And this is why I think it’s an amazing tool for social change and social impact.”
Nour has spent years working in humanitarian aid and refugee policy, trying to convince people that refugee lives deserve investment, dignity and opportunity. But even with education, experience and speaking English, the barriers have never disappeared.
“I consider myself a privileged refugee. I have a good career. I was lucky enough to never have to go on benefits. But barriers still exist. I’m still not eligible for business loans just because I am a refugee. And if it’s hard for me, imagine how hard it is for other refugees without the same privileges that I have.”
Nour’s dream is to build a permanent refugee-led cafe where refugees can work, share their diverse food and cultures, invite everyone to eat, drink and dance together with joy.
As Nour says, everybody is welcome to Baytna. All you need to do is to leave your status on the door, and come in with open arms and a hungry belly.
Counter Culture
Counter Culture is LOTI’s original documentary series focusing on the inspiring people behind London’s shops, kitchens and counter tops – and the human stories you don’t see from the street. From corner shops doubling as cultural hubs to refugee chefs rebuilding their lives through food, each episode explores how migration, identity, family and community shape and enrich the city.
Real people. Real places. Stories you won’t find anywhere else.
See more in our series here.
