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, and Migrant Help.

All events are free and open to everyone. There is no childcare available. Bus tickets can be reimbursed upon request.

13:00 – 15:00
Launch event
We’ll be kicking off Refugee Week with an opening ceremony on Monday, introducing the activities for the week, and launching the artwork and exhibitions that will be on display for the full 5 days: Art and Photography Exhibition by SASS, Information Exhibition from SCoS, and Artwork Display from local Schools of Sanctuary.

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!

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!

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.

17:00 – 19:00
Refugee Week Celebration
Join us for the main event of the week – our Refugee Week Celebration! We’ve invited speakers, dancers, and poets, to take part in celebrating the contributions, creativity, and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary in Swansea. We’ll also be celebrating the achievement of the Dylan Thomas Centre, who have achieved their Art Centre of Sanctuary Award. Food will be served. As with all events this week, entry is free and open to all. 

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!