20.06.2017

Welsh Fare member brings together refugees and host communities in family fun day out

A total of 120 players and 500 families are expected to join the 10th Refugee week football tournament organised by the Welsh Fare member Zimbabwe Newport Volunteering Association to promote social inclusion.

The initiative consists of a day-long of football activities and a family fun day out, which will include a barbecue, activities for children and a 5-a-side tournament.

The initiative is being organised as part of the Refugee Week, an campaign which takes place across the world in the week around World Refugee Day on 20 June. In the UK, Refugee Week is a nationwide programme of arts, cultural and educational events that celebrate the contribution of refugees to the UK, and encourages a better understanding between communities.

The Zimbabwe Newport Volunteering Association event will take place on Saturday 24 June at the Gol centre, Lliswerry high school, Newport, Wales.

Robert Muza, a representative of the association, said: "We are exciting to host the 10th edition of Newport Refugee Week Football tournament and Family Fun Day Out because it brings communities together and breaks down social barriers, refugees and host communities share stories and cultures.

"It is not just about the integration of refugees but also about educating the host communities to what life is as a refugee."

Former Sunderland FC captain Sean Wharton will be this year's special guest, presenting the winners' trophy and scouting for players.

In addition, Zimbabwe Newport Volunteering Association delivers every Tuesday night futsal sessions for refugees. The project attracts an average of 50 refugees every week.

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