Refugee Week celebration brings communities together in Aberystwyth
A Refugee Week celebration hosted by AberAid and Ceredigion’s Resettlement Team has been hailed a success after bringing local residents, volunteers and families together to celebrate culture, food and community spirit.
The event took place in Aberystwyth, where guests had the opportunity to enjoy food from Syria, Ukraine and Sudan. The celebration gave people from across the community a chance to come together, share stories and learn more about the experiences and contributions of refugees living in Ceredigion.
The food was prepared by people who have been forced to leave their homes because of war. For some, the hope is that this is temporary, while others have settled, found work and are building new lives here. However, the connection to their homes, culture and way of life remains deeply important.
As part of the day’s activities, AberAid and the Resettlement Team also hosted a stall at the local farmers’ market by the Clock Tower, helping to raise awareness and celebrate the strength, resilience and diversity of communities in Ceredigion.
The response from the public was overwhelmingly positive, with visitors showing strong support for the event and taking part in conversations about welcome, inclusion and belonging. A display of quotes from refugees living in Ceredigion also showed the impact of local support, with messages referring to feeling safe, being welcomed by the community and appreciating the support available.
Councillor Bryan Davies, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, said: “We were delighted to see so many people come together to celebrate Refugee Week. The event was a wonderful opportunity to share food, culture and conversation, and to recognise the valuable contribution that refugees make to our local communities.”
Medi James, AberAid, said: “These communities have brought unique traditions, skills and perspectives that have woven into, and continue to enrich, the broader social fabric of Wales through music, food, the spoken word and writing. Wales is a Nation of Sanctuary and is committed to helping migrants living in Wales become part of the wider community.”
The celebration reflected the ongoing partnership between AberAid and Ceredigion’s Resettlement Team in supporting people seeking sanctuary and promoting a warm, inclusive welcome across the county.
How you can help:
- Become a host: Could you offer a spare room or property to a displaced Ukrainian family or individual?
- Help resettle refugees: Do you own a privately rented property?
- Raise awareness: Share this message and encourage others to get involved.
Every home offered brings safety, dignity and hope to someone who has lost theirs.
For more information, please contact the Resettlement Team by emailing clic@ceredigion.gov.uk or calling 01545 570881.
15/07/2026