Unity in Diversity
Celebrating the cultures, connections and communities that make Mid Ulster unique.
What is Unity in Diversity?
Unity in Diversity is a programme run by First Steps Women's Centre that celebrates the rich mix of cultures, backgrounds and identities across the Mid Ulster Council area.
Through events, activities and shared experiences, Unity in Diversity brings people together — fostering real connections.
Whether you are new to Mid Ulster or have lived here all your life, Unity in Diversity is open to everyone, men and women.
Everything we do is built around three simple ideas:
🌍 Celebrate Culture
We explore and honour the many cultural identities that make Mid Ulster such a vibrant and unique place to live. From food and music to traditions and stories — every culture has something wonderful to share.
🤝 Build Connection
We create opportunities to forge meaningful links between individuals, groups and organisations across our community. Because real connection happens when people have the chance to meet, talk and share.
Celebrating Our First Year - Building Bridges Across Mid Ulster
Unity in Diversity is now entering into its second year of delivery, marking an exciting milestone as we continue to build inclusive, welcoming spaces for refugees, migrant workers, and host communities across Mid-Ulster.
Supported by PEACEPLUS and delivered in partnership with Mid Ulster Council, our programme brings people together through sport, activity, cultural exchange, and community participation. Whether you're new to the area or a long-standing member of our community, there's a place for you here.
Over the past year, we've:
- Hosted our flagship Big Community Picnic in Dungannon (June 2026), celebrating Refugee Week with live entertainment and community connection
- Launched Sanctuary Runners Dungannon, a weekly walking group that's created genuine friendships and support networks
- Delivered sports and activity programmes that bring young people and families together
- Created safe spaces for learning, conversation, and cultural sharing
As we move into the final quarter of 2026, we're ramping up our efforts with an upcoming campaign and running more programme activities across Mid Ulster
- Good Relations Week 2026 (12–18 October) – celebrating inclusion and cross-community belonging across Magherafelt, Dungannon, and Cookstown
- New collaboration opportunities emerging in Magherafelt and Cookstown
Everyone is welcome here. No prior experience needed – just a willingness to connect, learn, and grow together.
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events – End of Year One & Beyond
As we approach the end of our first year, Unity in Diversity is hosting special events that celebrate our community, mark important milestones, and invite everyone to get involved. Here's what's coming:
EVENT 1: COMMUNITY EVENT: CELEBRATING CULTURES, CONNECTING PEOPLE
As part of Good Relations Week 2026, Unity in Diversity is delighted to invite the public to a vibrant community celebration at the Hill of The O'Neill, Dungannon.
Taking place on Saturday 17 October 2026 from 1.00pm to 4.00pm, this free event will bring together people from across Mid Ulster to celebrate the rich cultural diversity that makes our communities stronger, more inclusive and welcoming.
Visitors can enjoy an afternoon of live music, dance performances and traditional food, showcasing the many cultures that call Mid Ulster home. The event provides a unique opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, learn from one another and build meaningful connections through shared experiences.
Good Relations Week is an annual celebration of community relations, cultural diversity and inclusion across Northern Ireland. This event reflects those values by encouraging understanding, promoting positive relationships and celebrating the contribution of all communities living in the region.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday 17 October 2026
- Time: 1.00pm to 4.00pm
- Venue: Hill of The O'Neill, Dungannon
- Cost: Free admission
Everyone is welcome to join us for an afternoon of culture, friendship and community spirit.
This programme is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
(Click HERE for previous events)
Upcoming Activities
Get Involved – Activities Across Mid-Ulster
Our weekly and ongoing programmes create spaces for connection, wellbeing, and belonging. All activities are free, welcoming, and open to everyone – regardless of background, ability, or experience.
Activity 1: SANCTUARY RUNNERS (DUNGANNON)
What: A weekly walking group combining health, wellbeing, and community connection
When: Thursday, 12:30–1:30pm
Where: Meet at the front steps of Ranfurly House, Dungannon
Who: Open to all (men and women) no experience necessary, all fitness levels welcome
Why join: Build friendships, explore Dungannon, improve wellbeing, and be part of a supportive community. Many of our walkers have formed lasting connections and now gather socially outside of run times.
Contact: For more details, contact
Activity 2: BC WOLVES BASKETBALL COACHING (COOKSTOWN)
What: Sports coaching programme delivering basketball skills, teamwork, and youth engagement
Where: Dungannon & Cookstown Leisure Centres
Who: Young people all ages
Why join: Develop sporting skills in a fun, inclusive environment. Build confidence, make friends, and be part of a welcoming team regardless of experience level.
Contact: BC Wolves NI Email:
Activity 3: GLOBAL TEEN COOKERY SESSIONS
What: Cultural cookery classes celebrating food from around the world – a delicious way to learn, share, and connect
When: Thursday 10th, 17th and 24th September 6PM – 9PM
Where: Dungannon Youth Resource Centre and Cookstown Youth Centre
Who: Young people aged 13-15
Why join: Explore different cuisines, learn new skills, share cultural stories, and enjoy cooking together. Food is a universal language that brings communities together.
Contact: For more details, contact
Activity 4: EXPLORING TRAUMA AND MOVING ON
What: Trauma Moving On is a fully funded support programme designed for individuals
who have experienced trauma, particularly migrants, refugees, and displaced persons.
What you will gain:
- Practical tools for emotional healing and well-being.
- Inner strength, resilience, and renewed confidence.
- A safe space to connect with others in a confidential, culturally sensitive
environment.
When:
- Session 1: Friday 2nd October 2026
- Session 2: Friday 9th October 2026
- Session 3 Friday 23rd October 2026 (Final Session)
• Time: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM (Each session is 3.5 hours long)
• Venue: First Steps Women's Centre, Dungannon
• Admission: Completely FREE (Fully Funded)
Who:
- Men and women who have experienced trauma and are seeking emotional
recovery. - Migrants, refugees, and locals looking for a safe, welcoming space to connect.
- Anyone in need of a culturally sensitive and completely confidential environment
to heal.
Why join:
- Expert guidance: Benefit from professional workshops led by experienced
practitioners. - Shared understanding: Connect with a supportive community of people who
truly understand your journey.
Contact:
(Click HERE for past activities)
How to Get Involved
All activities listed above are free and open to everyone.
To find out current times, locations, and how to register:
- Call: 028 8772 7648
- Email:
- Visit: First Steps Women's Centre, Dungannon
- Online: firststepwomenscentre.org facebook.com/unityindiversityni
No experience necessary. All cultures and communities most welcome.
What People Say
"Being part of Unity in Diversity helped me feel at home in Mid Ulster. I made friends I never expected to make."
"I came along not knowing what to expect, and I left feeling proud of where I'm from and curious about so many other cultures."
Let's Connect
We would love to hear from you — whether you want to join an event, bring a group along, explore a partnership, or simply learn more about what Unity in Diversity can offer your organisation or community.
Unity in Diversity is supported by Mid Ulster District Council and delivered by
First Steps Women's Centre, Dungannon.
