EU Project Experience

No experience

Cultures Meet Ireland is a newly formed refugee led organisation which is still developing.

This organisation is new to EU funding and will be supported by the Access Europe team.

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EU Funding Goals

Cultures Meet Ireland's plan to build networks and establish credibility through its work in the first two years, followed by a vision of becoming a leader in integrating cultures in Ireland and engaging in significant projects with European partnerships within 5 to 10 years, demonstrates an ambitious growth strategy.

We can benefit from various opportunities and learnings that can contribute to our objectives.

Some  potential aspects that Cultures Meet Ireland may learn from such a partnership

• Best Practices: Engaging with European partners will expose Cultures Meet Ireland to diverse experiences and best practices in cultural integration. By collaborating with organizations and experts from different European countries, Cultures Meet Ireland can learn innovative approaches, successful models, and effective strategies used to integrate cultures. This knowledge can help refine our own initiatives and strengthen their impact.
• Networks and Collaboration: Building networks is a key priority for Cultures Meet Ireland in the initial years. A European partnership can offer access to a wide range of organizations, institutions, and stakeholders involved in cultural integration across Europe. Through collaboration and exchange, we can expand our network, foster mutually beneficial relationships, and gain valuable insights from partners working in similar fields.
• Funding Opportunities: European partnerships often provide access to funding opportunities that can support ambitious projects. We can learn about available grants, programs, and initiatives that support cultural integration and community development. By understanding the application processes, criteria, and successful approaches to securing funding, Cultures Meet Ireland can enhance its financial sustainability and implement larger-scale projects.
• Policy and Advocacy: Engaging with European partners can offer valuable insights into policy frameworks, legislation, and advocacy efforts related to cultural integration. Cultures Meet Ireland can learn about successful policy initiatives implemented in other European countries, understand the impact of legislation on cultural integration, and advocate for supportive policies in Ireland. This knowledge can contribute to shaping national policies and improving the overall environment for cultural integration.
• Project Management and Scaling: As Cultures Meet Ireland aims to engage in significant projects in the long term, partnering with European organizations experienced in executing large-scale initiatives can provide valuable lessons in project management, scalability, and sustainability. Learning from successful European partnerships, we can develop efficient project management practices, establish robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, and ensure the long-term viability of their integration projects.

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Strengths

Cultures Meet Ireland possesses several strengths that contribute to its mission of integrating cultures in Ireland.

These strengths include:

• Lived Experience: As an organization founded by refugees with lived experience, Cultures Meet Ireland brings a unique perspective and firsthand understanding of the challenges and needs faced by individuals and communities going through the integration process. This deep insight enables them to design initiatives that are relevant, culturally sensitive, and tailored to the specific requirements of refugees and migrants.
• Access to Direct Provision Centers: Having access to all Direct Provision centers in Ireland provides Cultures Meet Ireland with a significant advantage in terms of outreach and engagement. This allows them to directly connect with individuals who are currently in the process of seeking asylum or awaiting a decision on their status. The organization can build relationships, offer support, and provide resources to empower residents in their integration journey.
• Dedicated Volunteer Base: With a team of more than 20 volunteers, Cultures Meet Ireland benefits from a committed and passionate group of individuals who contribute their time, skills, and energy to the organization's activities. The volunteers play a crucial role in implementing programs, organizing events, providing support services, and acting as ambassadors for cultural integration.
• Anti-Racism Facilitators: Cultures Meet Ireland's 10 anti-racism facilitators are a valuable asset in promoting inclusivity, understanding, and dialogue within communities. These facilitators possess knowledge and expertise in addressing racism, discrimination, and bias. They can conduct workshops, training sessions, and awareness campaigns to foster a more tolerant and diverse society.
• Trauma Counselors: The presence of three trauma counselors within Cultures Meet Ireland indicates the organization's commitment to supporting individuals who may have experienced traumatic events in their past. These professionals provide essential mental health services, helping individuals navigate the emotional and psychological challenges associated with their migration experiences.
• Trainers: Cultures Meet Ireland benefits from the expertise of two trainers who can deliver specialized training programs. These trainers can offer workshops and educational sessions to enhance cultural competence, promote intercultural understanding, and equip individuals and organizations with the necessary skills to effectively engage with diverse communities.
• Connection with the Host Community: Cultures Meet Ireland's strong connections with the host community are an advantage when it comes to fostering understanding, collaboration, and acceptance. By actively engaging with the local community, the organization can promote cross-cultural exchange, break down stereotypes, and build bridges between different cultural groups.

By leveraging these strengths, Cultures Meet Ireland can create impactful initiatives, provide comprehensive support services, facilitate dialogue and education, and foster a more inclusive and harmonious society for refugees, migrants, and the wider community in Ireland