This Refugee Week (16th-20th June), a powerful partnership of local organisations is coming together to host a vibrant week-long programme of events at The Collaboration Station (9-11 St David’s Place, SA1 3LG), celebrating the contributions, creativity, and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary in Swansea.

Entry is free, and everyone is warmly invited to join us, learn more about Refugee Week, hear stories from people seeking sanctuary in Swansea, explore volunteering opportunities, and celebrate this year’s inspiring theme: Community as a Superpower.

These events are kindly sponsored by Swansea Council, Welsh Refugee Council, Western Bay Community Cohesion Team, Migrant Help and Hay, Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees.

Bus tickets can be reimbursed upon request.
There is no childcare available, except for Tuesday 17th, thanks to the SASS Welcome to Play project.

15:00 – 17:00
Film Screening and Discussion – Hostile (2022)
Join us on Monday for a special screening of Hostile (2022), a powerful documentary exploring the UK’s complicated relationship with its migrant communities. This thought-provoking film sheds light on the impact of the UK’s policies on people seeking sanctuary. The screening will be followed by a facilitated discussion, offering a chance to reflect, share perspectives and deepen understanding of the challenges faced by refugees and migrants in the UK today.

12:00 – 14:00
SASS Snakes & Ladders Tournament
On Tuesday, Swansea Asylum Seekers Support (SASS) will be hosting a ‘Snakes & Ladders: Special Asylum Seekers Edition’ Tournament, using their insightful board game produced by members of SASS. The game takes you on a journey through the UK asylum system, it provides information, but it’s about feelings as well as facts!
*Childcare available thanks to the SASS Welcome to Play Team*

14:00 – 17:00
Art Workshop with Mary Hayman
Join Swansea Asylum Seekers Support (SASS) and fantastic local artist, Mary Hayman, to create a big, colourful picture of our city and community. No experience needed, all materials will be provided. Open to all ages!
*Childcare available thanks to the SASS Welcome to Play Team*

13:00 – 15:00
Chai & Chat Session
Join us on Wednesday for a relaxed and welcoming session with SCVS and EYST, inspired by an image of the River Tawe. We’ll explore themes of community, home, and Swansea history. Come along for a chat and a cup of tea! Travel expenses will be covered, and snacks and refreshments will be available.

15:00 – 16:30

Salsa Session

Get ready to move, laugh and shine! Join us for a feel-good salsa session led straight from the heart, by a Latina whose energy and rhythm are truly infectious. Everyone’s welcome, no dance experience needed. Just bring your good vibes and a willingness to move!

12:30 – 14:30
Speaker’s Corner

The Speaker’s Corner intends to be an open space for anyone who wants to share their experience as asylum seeker or refugee, or to any organisation or individual who wants to share information for the community. It aims to be a relaxed and open space where we could build a conversation in an organic way.

12:00 – 15:00 
World Flavours Cooking Demonstration

Join us for a mouth-watering cooking demo led by members of our refugee and asylum-seeking community. A Ukrainian cook will show us how to make Varenyky (traditional vegetarian dumplings) while an Afghan chef will prepare Mantu (traditional meat-filled dumplings). Come along to learn new recipes, hear the stories behind the dishes, and celebrate a rich diversity of flavours!

13:00 – 15:00
Volunteer Day

Thinking about getting involved in volunteering? Our last event of the week is Volunteer Day, come along to find out what opportunities are available in Swansea. Whether you’re someone with lived experience of seeking asylum looking to build skills and meet new people, or you’re interested in supporting refugee and asylum-seeking communities, this is a great chance to connect, ask questions, and see what opportunities there are on offer. Everyone is welcome – drop in and have a chat!