What’s on: Wednesday 18 June
We’ve reached the mid-point of Refugee Festival Scotland 2025. Here are some of the programme highlights for Wednesday 18 June.
1. Javad Daraei: Two Dead Films and One Still Alive
When: 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Where: The Cameo, Edinburgh
Award-winning filmmaker Javad Daraei will present two short films made in Iran alongside footage from a new film that he is currently developing in Scotland. Followed by a conversation with the artist.
2. Petals of Peace – Floral Art Journey from Ukraine to Scotland (exhibition) / Пелюстки миру: Художня подорож від України до Шотландії (виставка)
When: The exhibition runs 13th-21st June and is open over Blairgowrie library’s opening hours.
Where: Blairgowrie Library, Blairgowrie
Artist Liudmyla Kurta-Stehun showcases a collection of floral paintings symbolising her journey from Ukraine to Scotland. Her work captures the unique colours and textures of Scotland’s distinct flowers and the tranquillity and solace that nature brings.
3. Journeys of Resilience: Celebrating Lives Transformed
When: 18 June 2025 10:00am – 19 June 2025 2:00pm
Where: Mossvale Hall, Paisley
Journeys of Resilience is an immersive exhibition that shines a light on the stories of refugees and asylum seekers in Scotland. Blending art, personal stories, and interactive elements, it invites visitors to connect with people’s experiences of displacement, strength, and hope.
Marking 40 years of the Scottish Refugee Council, the event is a celebration of resilience of those seeking safety and a call for compassion, inclusivity, and community solidarity.
4. Walk, Talk and Cake: Explore Edinburgh Together
When: 11:00am – 1:00pm
Where: Holyrood Park, Edinburgh
Join Ramblers Scotland for a friendly walk through beautiful Holyrood Park, Edinburgh. Whether you’re new to walking or a regular walker, everyone is welcome. Enjoy peaceful paths, meet new people, and learn more about where and how you can walk. Afterwards, relax with free tea, coffee, and cake!
5. Building Language for Life: Celebrating Language Milestones / بناء لغة للحياة: الإحتفاء بمراحل التطور اللغوي
When: 12:00pm – 2:30pm
Where: Bridgeton Community Learning Campus, Bridgeton
Hosted by ESOL Scotland, this learner-led event highlights the voices and stories of language learners through audio, games, art, and storytelling. Enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere, a tasty buffet lunch, and a joyful showcase of learning and achievement.
Find out more
Refugee Festival Scotland 2025 is made possible with support from the National Lottery through Creative Scotland, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Glasgow City Heritage Trust, and Flutter UKIs Cash4Clubs programme (delivered in partnership with Sported). Many thanks to all our generous funders.
