Free life skills and guidance programme for migrants

By Navjyoti Dalal

A practical integration and growth programme for migrants is set to commence in Athlone on Saturdays in October . Organised by the Midlands Polish Community CLG, the training sessions are open to all communities and nationalities. The sessions and would run on Saturdays, October 3, 10 and 17 at St Mary’s Hall Community Centre.

Funded by the GRETB, the programme is designed to help a migrant navigate the new landscape, recognise one's skills and potential, build confidence, explore education and career opportunities, communicate effectively, and become more involved in the community.

Keeping in mind that a big part of the migrant community is not fluent in English, each topic in the programme starts with a practical English class, followed by a session with an expert. One can learn useful words and phrases first, to build an understanding and ease with the language. It will be followed by questions from the attendees.

"The idea is to support migrants, minorities, refugees who are just establishing themselves in Ireland and give them the skills, show some paths and teach them some aspects of Irish society, and their own rights," said Slavek Kazek, who is co-founder and president of the Midlands Polish Community CLG.

The same programme will also run in Galway, organised by Polish House. Navigate Ireland will be held on Saturdays, October 3, 10 and 17, 10 am to 1pm at St Mary’s Hall Community Centre. The event is free for all to attend, although registration is required. For more details contact 085 146 3545.