September 9 · 6:30 PM GMT+1
Join us for the next Beyond Bath event, where we’ll explore how stories can reshape the narrative of migration.
We’ve seen a rise in anti-migrant protests and hostile narratives in the UK. Headlines and policies often focus on division and fear instead of compassion and fairness. But we also know another story exists: one of solidarity, community, hope, and the power of people coming together to make change.
This is an opportunity to reflect together on the power of stories to shift the narrative.
We’re excited to welcome Bekele Woyecha, who has himself experienced the UK asylum system, including detention and destitution, and has more than 15 years of community organising and leadership from his former roles at Citizens UK, UK Welcomes Refugees and most recently at the Centre for Progressive Change. Bekele will share his story and his work with Together With Refugees, the UK’s largest coalition of passionate people working for a fair new plan for refugees. Bekele will talk about how grassroots organising can inspire change, and how local communities can be part of a national movement for a fairer approach to supporting refugees.
We’ll also share stories from people we support locally and introduce the Campaign Organising Network, a growing network of volunteers across the UK who are working with their communities to make change happen. As a member of this network, Bath Welcomes Refugees is proud to bring this conversation to our city.
Whether we are chatting to a neighbour, discussing a refugee-themed book at a book group, inviting a speaker to a church social, fundraising through a local choir, signing petitions, or emailing our MP, we can all encourage those around us to remember that refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants are, first and foremost, individuals with their own story to tell.
This is a space to
- Share ideas and experiences from our local community
- Learn about the campaign and the national movement
- Connect with others who care about creating a fair plan for refugees
- Explore ways to take action together.
About Bekele Woyecha
Bekele is the Deputy Director of the Asylum Reform Initiative / Together With Refugees and Co-Project Lead of the Campaign Organising Network.
He previously served as Senior Campaigner at the Centre for Progressive Change, where he built and supported campaign teams across the West Midlands.
A committed advocate for refugee rights for over 15 years, Bekele was the Founding Director of UK Welcomes Refugees and a co-founder of the Sponsor Refugees Foundation at Citizens UK, where he worked as Senior Project Manager. He was among the pioneers of the UK’s Community Sponsorship scheme and played a key role in delivering Refugee Welcome training nationwide in 2015 and 2016.
About Beyond Bath Talks
Beyond Bath Talks is a series designed to raise awareness of global realities through the voices of migrants, refugees, and activists, all working towards a more inclusive society.
One of our past speakers, Hiba from Sudafest, said:
“It’s been an honour to be part of this panel and to share such a meaningful discussion with my fellow panellists. Reflecting on my own story and hearing others—from Ukraine to Latin America—has been powerful. The questions were thoughtful, the conversations deep, and at a time when these stories matter more than ever, it’s vital to keep shedding light on our diverse journeys and voices.”
About Bath Welcomes Refugees
Bath Welcomes Refugees is a small but dynamic and inclusive charity. Volunteer-led and non-partisan, our mission is to facilitate the settlement and the path to independence of those who come to us seeking refuge. We are local people working directly with refugees and asylum seekers to build new lives.
Get involved and make everyone feel welcome!
Venue: Oasis Church Bath, Fountain Buildings, The Paragon, Bath, BA1 5DU.Please use the entrance on Lansdown Road (side door)
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