In this spring, Estonian Refugee Council will start a series of round table discussions, targeted for municipal specialists. Also, activities of social enterprise Siin & Sääl will be expanded. Refugees and people with migrant background themselves, will take the lead in many activities. The main purpose is to increase reception and positive image of the people from different cultural space, and to alleviate fear, stereotypes and prejudices related to them.

“World is like a little village and cultural differences is abundance. That is why we need to respect different cultures and benefit from the experiences of each other,” said the Turkish project manager Celal Yilidrim.

During half a year long period, refugees will conduct a series of six round table meetings, called “Lõimumiskiirend”, directed to local municipal specialists. The goal is to improve the attitude and tolerance of the people working with refugees. The knowledge and experience gained from the meetings is used to make a card game, that can be used to discuss topics related to migration and integration.

Also, a video called “Similarities between us” will be made, related to the project “More capability and reception to people with exile and migrant backgrounds”, to invite people to be more tolerate and understanding towards each other.

According to Rait Parts, the leader of the food sector of the social enterprise Siin & Sääl, there are various plans for this year.

“Whenever possible, we are expanding our weekly meal circle and offering lunch to those, who have already found the way to us, as well as to new friends. Hopefully, as the spring progresses, people who work at home and order their lunch there, will find an opportunity to come and visit our community center where they can loosen up,” said Parts, and added that when the weather gets warmer, there are plans to offer food baskets and smaller catering variants to those, who may wish to have a picnic or enjoy a little bit different dining experience with loved ones.

“And let’s not forget - since last December, our online shop is offering coffee and cookies. Goods assembled by the team of Siin & Sääl are telling the stories about the homeland and the culture of the authors of the recipes. We hope to expand our selection even more and if everything goes well, we are going to expand our reach to other stores,” Parts said.

Project is funded by “Aktiivsete Kodanike Fond”.