Maya‘s Story is a graphic novel developed by Shama as part of our research, Navigating Safety and Justice in Aotearoa New Zealand. While Maya is a fictional character, her story is based on the real experiences of ethnic and migrant women who shared their journeys with us through interviews and community engagement.
Through Maya‘s experiences, we see how family violence, immigration status, housing, financial security, parenting arrangements, and the legal system can become deeply connected. The story highlights the challenges many women face when seeking safety, particularly when support services and systems do not communicate effectively with one another. It also demonstrates the strength, resilience, and determination of women who continue to advocate for themselves and their children despite significant barriers.
More than a story, Maya‘s Story is a call for reflection and action. It invites all of us—government agencies, service providers, community organisations, professionals, and the wider public—to consider how we can create systems that are more connected, culturally responsive, and centred on the needs of those seeking safety. By listening to the voices behind Maya‘s journey, we can work towards a future where every woman is treated with dignity, supported holistically, and able to live free from violence and fear.
The graphic novel was brought to life by writer Dhilum Nightingale, illustrator Bijou Brown, and designer Afnan Kayed, whose combined work helped turn complex research findings into a compelling and accessible story. We also thank Dr Rachel Simon-Kumar and Pooja Sundar for their guidance, support, and valuable contributions as project supervisors. Finally, we acknowledge the support of the Michael and Suzanne Borrin Foundation, whose funding made this work possible.
