Moate to mark World Refugee Week with schedule of community events

Moate is marking World Refugee Week with schedule of community events.

Organised by New Horizon Refugee Support Group, the community is invited to join events taking place in Moate from today, Monday, June 15, to Sunday, June 21.

This year's Refugee Week theme is 'Courage', with organisers saying it aims to recognise "the strength it takes to flee conflict and persecution, rebuild lives in a new country, and create a sense of home and belonging".

Through film, art, culture, and community engagement, the week aims to celebrate the contributions of refugees, promote understanding, and highlight the themes of courage, hope, belonging and inclusion.

The week's events will explore the many forms courage can take, from overcoming adversity to extending friendship, solidarity and support to others.

A highlight of the week's programme will be a free screening of the acclaimed documentary 'HOME: The Story of Zak Moradi' at Tuar Ard Arts Centre on Wednesday, June 17, at 7pm.

The film tells the remarkable story of Zak Moradi, who was born in a Kurdish refugee camp in war-torn Iraq before arriving in Ireland as a refugee. Through determination, resilience and a love of hurling, Zak went on to become an award-winning athlete and one of Ireland's most prominent refugee voices.

The documentary explores his family's journey from conflict and displacement to finding a sense of home and belonging in Ireland.

Following the screening, the audience will have the opportunity to hear from Zak Moradi in person during a special Q&A session.

Admission is free, and tickets can be booked through Tuar Ard Arts Centre. Phone: (090) 648 2042 or email info@tuarard.ie

On World Refugee Day, Saturday, June 20, New Horizon Refugee Support will host a tent at Festival Mná at Dún na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park.

Group members will share messages of hope, love, unity and courage while showcasing traditional cultural skills and crafts from their countries of origin.

Visitors will have the opportunity to experience traditional henna art, African hair braiding and a range of handmade crafts created by members of the group.

The event offers a chance for people from all backgrounds to come together, celebrate cultural diversity and learn more about the experiences, talents and contributions of refugees living in Westmeath.

The market and entertainment area of the Festival is free for all the community and everyone is invited to come out and celebrate together.

Speaking about the week's events, Maria Flanagan, New Horizon Refugee Support said that World Refugee Week "provides an opportunity not only to recognise the challenges faced by people forced to flee their homes, but also to celebrate their courage, resilience, achievements and contributions to society".

The group extends an invitation to everyone in the community to attend the events, and help build "a more welcoming, inclusive and compassionate society".

For further information on Refugee Week activities in Moate, contact Maria on 086 3783483