Amara Khaled, [re]Voiced Collective (2025)

Artist Statement

Stories have the power to heal, disrupt, and reimagine the world we live in. The [re]Voiced Collective is a digital storytelling project dedicated to amplifying South Asian American mental health narratives, a topic often silenced by stigma, cultural expectations, and generational divides. Mental health remains a deeply stigmatized and often unspoken topic within South Asian communities, particularly among second-generation immigrants who navigate the complexities of cultural expectations and personal well-being.

At the heart of this project are oral history interviews – intimate conversations where members of the South Asian diaspora share their lived experiences with mental health. These narratives, interwoven with educational resources and community engagement tools, serve as both testimony and guidance; helping individuals recognize that they are not alone.

This project is an act of community-building – a way to reclaim space, challenge stigma, and spark conversations. The website integrates audio and video clips, curated excerpts, and personal testimonials, offering multiple ways for users to engage with the material. Designed with intention, the interface not only educates but also validates and empowers those who may struggle to put their own experiences into words.

Biography

Amara is a multidisciplinary designer, educator, and researcher from Connecticut whose work explores the intersections of digital media, storytelling, and social impact. She is a MFA candidate at her alma mater, University of Connecticut, in the Digital Media and Design program. She received her BFA at the UConn Fine Arts Department in Graphic Design and English. Her practice focuses on visual narratives that challenge dominant perspectives and amplify underrepresented voices. Her ongoing MFA thesis uses oral history, interactive media, and digital storytelling to address mental health stigma within South Asian communities. Amara’s work has been recognized by the Connecticut Art Director’s Club and showcased in exhibitions highlighting design as a tool for advocacy and identity exploration.

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