Help Emily Mahi`ai Stay in Edinburgh

Aim

Raising funds for an Edinburgh-based performing artist applying for a 5-year Global Talent Visa

I am an autistic, non-binary performing artist who studied at Edinburgh Napier University and has been living in Scotland for nearly 6 years. I love living here. Being a part of the performing arts scene in both Edinburgh and Glasgow has enriched my life deeply, so much so that it's hard to imagine starting over anywhere else without the network and community I've become embedded in here. Because of this, I am currently in the process of applying for a global talent visa to continue living and working in the place I've come to call home. This is a visa awarded to individuals with exceptional talent or promise in their field, and for a 5-year visa, it will cost £5941. 

On top the cost of the visa, Arts Council England endorsement decisions are taking longer than the standard 8 weeks, which means I may have to briefly leave the country before my current visa expires. This will cost a bit of time and money, and even if I immediately return to the UK I won't be able to work until my new visa is approved. 

We are also holding a variety show event on 27 July at The Banshee Labyrinth, featuring artists from Edinburgh and Glasgow. It'll be a night full of laughter and drumming up excitement for the Fringe! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/living-la-visa-loca-tickets-1993870625715 

Lastly, I'd like to express my deepest gratitude to all of the wonderful people who've helped with my endorsement application, with putting on this fundraiser, and supporting me in any way, shape, or form. Thank you, thank you, thank you! 

This project successfully funded on 30th August 2026