Thanks to vaccines, this Newroz we have reason to be hopeful

The incredible vaccine rollout taking place across the UK has given us reason to be hopeful, especially for the year ahead.

Today many families across the country, including my own, are celebrating Newroz – an occasion which marks the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year. For Kurds, like me, Iranians, Afghans and many others, Newroz is one of the most important times of the year. It is traditionally celebrated by visiting your loved ones, and sharing sweets, pastries and tea with the many visitors who come knocking on your door. It is a time for renewed hope and to look towards new beginnings. The story behind Newroz is one of overcoming hardship and celebrating freedom – which is all the more poignant this year, of all years.