The Welcome Party will celebrate inclusivity and success by highlighting refugees’ contributions to Bristol.
The gala dinner on 7 November will give businesses a chance to hear, see and literally taste the positive impact refugees, people seeking asylum and vulnerable migrants have on the city.
It is being organised by ACH, the Bristol social enterprise building a better future for refugees and migrants by providing tailored integration services.
ACH’s Paul Hassan said: “We know that refugees want to succeed in their adopted home and are desperate to contribute to our nation’s cultural and economic life.
“The migrants and refugees we support are eager to either start new businesses or secure good jobs. There are just shy of a million vacancies currently available across the UK that employers are desperate to fill, including many in the Bristol and Bath area.
“Matching these opportunities with the enthusiastic job seekers we work with has got to be good not just for refugees but for everyone.”
The Welcome Party is a celebration and promotion of this economic ambition and the need for effective integration.
Taking place at The Mount Without on St Michael’s Hill, pictured, the fascinating evening of celebration, culture and inspiration will feature Olympic gold medallist Sir Mo Farah and shine a spotlight on the stories and successes of refugee and migrant entrepreneurs and employees who have made Bristol their home.
Tickets are available here and, with limited availability, they are expected to sell out quickly.
The event, however, will be more than just a celebration. It will be a platform to recognise the economic and cultural contributions of refugees and migrants to Bristol’s vibrant business scene.
Attendees will be treated to a taster menu crafted by ACH-supported catering businesses, featuring a delicious selection of dishes from Sudan, Egypt and Sri Lanka, highlighting the rich culinary diversity that these communities bring to the table.
ACH CEO Fuad Mahamed emphasised the significance of The Welcome Party.
“This event is an opportunity to celebrate the incredible achievements of refugees and migrants in Bristol,” he said.
“We want to bring together business leaders, community members and supporters to not only acknowledge these contributions but to also foster connections that can lead to more inclusive economic opportunities.”
In addition to these celebrations, the event will mark the launch of The Welcome Pledge, encouraging businesses and individuals to actively support refugee integration and inclusion by pledging to provide equal employment opportunities and fostering inclusive, welcoming workplaces.
The pledge is a call to action for employers to create an environment where migrants feel valued, respected and supported in their professional growth, driving not only social change but also economic progress.
The Welcome Party also invites sponsors to join the initiative – their support will help expand ACH’s reach and impact.
Any business interested in sponsorship opportunities or wishing to discuss further details should contact The Welcome Party at paul.hassan@ach.org.uk
Fuad added: “ “We’re thrilled that several prominent Bristol businesses, including Wessex Water, part of the highly successful YTL Group, have already secured their tickets, showing their support for this meaningful cause.
“This strong turnout from the business community highlights the shared commitment to inclusivity and the recognition of the valuable contributions refugees and migrants make to our economy.
“For those yet to join, this is your chance to be part of an unforgettable evening that not only celebrates diversity but also offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded businesses and community leaders.”
In addition to celebrating individual success stories, The Welcome Party will serve as a platform to build awareness among C-suite executives about the value that migrants bring to the economy.
ACH hopes to forge new partnerships and enhance effective refugee integration, creating a solid foundation for future events and furthering the dialogue on inclusivity.
Tickets for The Welcome Party are on sale now, with proceeds supporting ACH’s integration services and Bristol City of Sanctuary, advocating for a fair and compassionate asylum system.
