Summer Feasts, School Connections, Reem's Volunteer Story and More

 
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We’re really pleased to share highlights from three great Peace Feasts in June, and to let you know about two upcoming feasts that you can join in Bristol this month.


And keep scrolling to find out about Reem’s volunteering journey, the exciting next year of Bristol School Linking, and snapshots of bridge-building in Bristol from the past month.
 
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The Summer of Peace Feasts Continues

This month we have had the pleasure of hosting three wonderful and unique Peace Feasts, being reminded once again of the ways that sharing a meal together can help us learn about the cultures, experiences and perspectives of others.


We were pleased to host a Peace Feast for young people for the first time with The MAZI Project, during Feeding Bristol’s Food Justice Fortnight. After partnering with Arnolfini on a variety of projects over the past 5 years, we joined forces to put on a Peace Feast for the first time in the arts venue. And it was great to return aboard Brunel’s SS Great Britain for another special meal together!

Across the three events, we enjoyed Afghan, Arabic and Italian food cooked by Sima, Nasir and Oumaima, Sudanese, Moroccan and Anatolian music by Mohamed, Yousif, Özcan and Soufian, poetry performances by Leeza and Sukina and guest speakers, including conversations with artists Sahara Longe and Dana Awartani.


Here are just a few of the many comments we received this month:

I thought it was a lovely event, gently nudged out of our comfort zones, some lovely conversations and connections.” ~ Chris


”The artist’s comments on dignity with regard to memory and cultural heritage were inspiring.” Richard


“Beautifully organised, soul warming event.” ~ Dari


Why not join us for a Peace Feast this month?


23 July, 7-9pm | Redcatch Community Garden, Knowle
28 July, 7-9pm | Greenway Centre, Southmead
 
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Volunteer Spotlight: Reem Shares Her Volunteering Journey



Reem is one of hundreds who give their to to volunteer to make Bristol a Kinder, fairer, more welcoming city.


“As an urban researcher, I am deeply interested in how people experience the city, particularly those whose access to urban spaces is limited[…]. It was inspiring to see how the act of walking - something so simple - could become a powerful way for people to reclaim their right to the city and to feel a sense of belonging.” ~ Reem


Thank you Reem for being a wonderful Walk With Me volunteer. You are always wearing a smile, which helps the people you meet feel seen and welcomed. You are always happy to chat and get to know new people, as well as being willing to help out in a range of capacities. Thank you for the joy you bring to volunteering!


Read more of Reem’s story on our website.
 
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Now Registering: Yr5 & 8 Classes for School Linking Starting in September



Bristol School Linking connects Year 5 & 8 classes from different schools across the city, creating a year-long, impactful and enjoyable programme for all children. Curriculum rich, free, fully resourced and manageable for teachers, the program is based on evidence about effective social contact:
  • reducing prejudice & stereotyping
  • reducing anxiety
  • forming new & inclusive friendships
  • identifying common ground and similarity to others
  • celebrating diversity & forming enduring positive feelings about interactions across difference


Register your interest to connect your class or your school today, or share the link with a friend who may be interested!
 
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A snapshot of bridge-building in Bristol



There has been so much happening since last months newsletter. Here are six images that capture a few of the highlights.


>> New families from Sudan, Somalia, Afghanistan and Syria joined us for an afternoon of circus skills, sharing pizza and a walk around the lake.


>> School Linking Day at Arnolfini, including a powerful talk from Tina about the Windrush scandal.
>> Weaving Memories photography exhibition. An arts project for people seeking sanctuary, exploring how memories are passed between generations.


>> A trip to Tintern Abbey with people seeking sanctuary in Bristol. A chance to explore historic architecture, walk around the grounds, and share food together.
>> Befriending partners Anwar and Ryan sharing a bike ride, exploring green spaces surrounding Bristol.


>> Listening Space in a Synagogue for the first of three interfaith discussions in different places of worship.
 


 
Posted: July 2025