Refugee Week 2026 – "Big Community Picnic"
This summer, we celebrated Refugee Week 2026 with a series of billboard campaigns across Mid-Ulster and hosted our flagship Big Community Picnic in Dungannon (June 2026). The event brought hundreds of community members together, featuring live music, cultural performances, food, activities for children, and meaningful conversations about belonging and community.
The picnic was a powerful reminder of what's possible when communities come together – and it set the tone for everything we're building throughout 2026.
Integrating Through Sport: International Skittles Competition in Cookstown
The Unity in Diversity programme brought communities together through sport at our International Skittles Competition, held at Cookstown Community Centre on 19th Sept 2026. Open to people of all ages and backgrounds, the event provided a fun and welcoming opportunity for participants to learn a traditional game, meet new people and enjoy some friendly competition.
With demonstrations provided for beginners, the event encouraged participation from individuals and families who may never have played skittles before. Participants enjoyed a complimentary lunch, prizes and, most importantly, the opportunity to build new friendships and connections across cultures and communities. The event highlighted how sport can help break down barriers and create a shared sense of belonging for everyone involved. Special thanks to our Facilitator Eugene Hamill and to BC Wolves Basketball for all their support.
HUMAN LIBRARY EVENT, MAGHERAFELT
At our Human Library Event in Magherafelt Library, delivered in partnership with Libraries NI, participants were invited to "borrow" a person as well as a book and hear first-hand stories, experiences and perspectives from people living within our diverse communities. The event took place on 29 Sept 2026 and provided a unique opportunity for meaningful conversations and cultural exchange.
The Human Library format encouraged participants to challenge assumptions, ask questions and learn directly from the lived experiences of others in a respectful and welcoming environment. Through open dialogue and personal storytelling, attendees gained a deeper understanding of different cultures, backgrounds and life journeys. The event celebrated diversity, fostered greater understanding and helped create new connections between people from across Mid Ulster. A complimentary hot food buffet provided further opportunities for participants to continue conversations and strengthen community relationships. Special thanks to Magherafelt Library for
being so welcoming.
Celebrating Cultures, Connecting People remained at the heart of both events, demonstrating how shared experiences, conversation and community activities can bring people together and help build a more inclusive Mid Ulster.
