On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the Oris House of Architecture in Zagreb, we celebrated Christmas with refugees on International Migrants Day. It was a wonderful opportunity to come together and share the joy of the holiday season. Refugees from different parts of the world welcomed us, shared their customs and traditions, and delighted everyone with dishes from their homelands. Volunteer centers from the Faculty of Teacher Education in Zagreb and the Catholic University of Croatia prepared gifts for the children, adding a special touch to the gathering.

The event was organized as part of the Empowerment for Employment project, implemented in collaboration with UNHCR. It began with welcoming speeches by Ms. Anne Rich from UNHCR and Father Stanko Perica from JRS. Both expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet and serve the incredible individuals who have found a new home in Croatia. They also thanked all the partners and collaborators who support this mission and make it possible. They emphasized the importance of solidarity and unity in creating a better society.

After the opening remarks, attendees enjoyed a screening of award-winning works from the children’s film project “Hope Far from Home”, a collaboration between the Festival of Tolerance and UNHCR. The first prize was awarded to Ante Curać Elementary School in Žrnovo for their video “Yasmina – A Girl of Many Talents.”

A magical touch was added to the festive atmosphere by musical performances from the Mudryk family from Ukraine, who played the harp and flute.

During the gathering, diplomas and certificates were awarded to participants who successfully completed Croatian language courses—84 diplomas for course completions and 9 certificates for individuals who passed the B1 exam at an independent language school.

The children were thrilled with their gifts, and everyone enjoyed conversations, laughter, and shared experiences. We were especially moved by the presence of refugees with disabilities from the Stančić Rehabilitation Center, whose attendance brought even more warmth and joy to the evening. It was heartwarming to see connections forming and a true sense of unity taking shape.

The evening concluded with a lively dance performance by the JRS dance group, which enriched the festive atmosphere and filled our hearts with joy. It was a genuine celebration, full of laughter, dancing, and a profound sense of togetherness.

The Christmas Gathering with Refugees was more than just an event—it was a true moment of unity. It reminded us all that everyone deserves the chance to live with dignity and that, through kindness, understanding, and mutual support, we can build a better and fairer world.