Building Bridges: Together for a More Inclusive Community

In mid-August, a three-day event brought together asylum seekers and people on the move from TRC Lipa, local volunteers from the KES CONDOR association, and French volunteers, with the aim of strengthening social inclusion, intercultural exchange, and connections between people from diverse backgrounds and with different life experiences.

During their time in the natural surroundings, participants took part in a range of recreational, educational, and practical activities, including rock climbing, swimming and diving, as well as workshops focused on forest and river rescue techniques, basic knots, and rope skills.

A key aspect of the event was creating opportunities for direct interaction between people on the move and members of the local community. Through joint activities, participants were able to cooperate, exchange experiences, and learn from one another in an open and supportive environment.

In addition to sports and educational activities, participants prepared and shared meals, exchanged stories about different cultures and traditions, visited the city, and experienced a ride on the historic Ćiro train. These activities provided further opportunities for informal socialising, intercultural dialogue, and building mutual understanding.

For the asylum seekers and people on the move from TRC Lipa, the event offered an opportunity to step outside their everyday environment at the centre, gain new experiences, and establish connections with members of the local community. At the same time, local and international volunteers had the opportunity to get to know participants better, including their stories and diverse life experiences.

Activities such as these play an important role in reducing social distance, challenging prejudice, and building trust between different groups. Through shared participation, exchange, and cooperation, they contribute to creating more inclusive communities where diversity can become an opportunity for connection and learning.

The three-day event demonstrated once again that social inclusion can be strengthened through simple yet meaningful opportunities for people to meet, share experiences, and build connections.