Young people combat stereotypes in unique photo exhibit at Glasgow's Kelvingrove

For Valid Obamwonyi family, culture and home are what matter most.

After moving to Scotland from Nigeria five years ago, the 19-year-old is missing the traditions, foods and colours that make him think of his family and identity.

That’s why an image of his sister, now on display in Kelvingrove’s Art Gallery and Museum, brings him so much joy.

Valid Obamwonyi's portrait of his sister. — Valid Obamwonyi’s portrait of his sister. STV News

The portrait is one of a collection on display in One Community Scotland’s ‘See Me’ exhibition, aiming to show the characteristics and personalities of young people from diverse backgrounds in Scotland.

Valid, a student living in Glasgow, told STV News: “I’ve not been to my hometown for, like, five years or something, so I’m kind of sad and I’m happy because my sister can represent my hometown here in Glasgow.”

The project is in collaboration with the Violence Reduction Unit in response to concerns over growing youth violence in large cities like Glasgow.

It’s hoped the exhibition will help break down negative stereotypes and barriers faced by the young people.

Youth-led organisation, One Community Scotland have an active youth advisory panel who brought forward the idea of displaying the works which helped to combat pre-conceived ideas of those from BME backgrounds.

The exhibition came about as a result of the panel with the portraits made entirely by a group of 18 young amateur photographers.

Marianne Mandy, who helped bring the portraits to life with unique soundscapes to accompany the images, said to see the work on display at Kelvingrove is an “honour”.

She said: “And I’ve cried, walking behind each, editing each piece and walking behind them because their stories are so powerful and strong.”

Jasmin Aden, a senior youth coordinator with One Community Scotland, said the project was “really crucial” to help young people focus on the “wider picture”.

She said: “It gets young people to really focus on the wider picture and just know that the support network around them and there are people who are and support them, who are welcoming, who do see them as young people who are part of Scottish society. We’re all one community.”

One Community Scotland (OCS) offer support to young people and families who are new to the country. The award-winning charity’s aim is to help those from a diverse background overcome the obstacles to achieving their potential as they build their life in Scotland.

Focussing on the needs of young people aged 12-24 and their families, OCS offer support with mental health resources, employability and training.

The exhibition has been running through the week and can be caught during a special showcase on Saturday or until July 22.

For more information click here.