The unexpected offers worldly delights
I had no idea what to expect attending the YWCA celebration in Glasgow as part of Refugee Week Scotland. I was welcomed by a busy crowd, already chatting and engaged in lively multicultural activities.
Changing attitudes and breaking down stereotypes
Gabrielle Macbeth, organiser of the ‘YWCA Get Together’, arranged the event as a celebration of different cultures, also aiming to help change attitudes to Refugees and asylum seekers and break down stereotypes.
From play dough and face painting for children, to arts, crafts, world cooking and relaxation treatments for adults – many activities were on offer. My attempts at making a friendship bracelet became slightly tangled, despite the best efforts of the friendly young woman trying to teach me, but I was soon assured by another lady that I was not alone.
Sharing culture, creating understanding
The diverse group of women who attend the YWCA social club were contributors – who wanted to provide something from their cultures to create the celebration. Rozy from India stretched out long black thread and carefully plucked beautiful brows, also treating people to massages.
Akari Onuma produced expertly made sushi which she felt was a good offering from her Japanese background as it is so well known but people are interested to see how it is made.
Pakistani henna tattoos were available from Ayesha Ahmad who felt that people like the patterns of the henna and enjoy it.
An opportunity to meet new people
Many women attending, spoke of the enjoyment of simply getting together with friends or meeting new people here. Safina Hussain explained it was “the mix of different cultures” she liked and many people expressed they also valued the diversity. Some women also felt attending the event helped them have fun and forget their everyday concerns.
Sheeren Khokhar summed it up when she said “in today’s circumstances with all the worry- nice to get together like this”.
