Hebridean Refugee Community

08/07/2026

Creating connection across the Hebrides

“I am originally from Afghanistan, and in 2021, after the Taliban takeover, I came to Scotland with my spouse and child. The early days after our arrival were very difficult, but gradually we were able to adapt to the new environment.”

02/07/2026

As part of Hebridean Refugee Week, we had the pleasure of visiting some local primary schools to deliver assemblies for both infant and upper school pupils. Together, we explored what it means to be a refugee, why people are forced to leave their homes, and how we can all play a part in making people feel safe and welcome. We spoke about the strong tradition of 'Hebridean Hospitality' and community spirit, encouraging children to think about how these values can help create a sense of belonging for those starting a new life here. We also drew comparisons with the Highland Clearances, helping pupils understand that Scotland, too, has a history of displacement and resilience. It was a really positive and rewarding experience, with fantastic engagement from the children and wonderful support from school staff. Having these conversations from an early age is so important in helping to nurture empathy, understanding and inclusive communities.

01/07/2026

Stories, Culture, and Community at the Hebridean Refugee Festival

We were delighted to host an inspiring afternoon of stories and conversation at An Lanntair, Stornoway on Saturday, 20th June, as last part of the Hebridean Refugee Festival 2026.

The event brought together members of the local community to explore the experiences, cultures, and journeys that shape our communities.

We were honoured to hear thought-provoking presentations from Olena Onufriieva, Vlad Chystiakov, Anne Macaulay, and Malcolm Macdonald, who shared powerful insights on living with an open heart, Ukraine, refugee support, and the history of Lewis and Highland emigration.
The afternoon encouraged meaningful conversations, strengthened community connections, and highlighted the importance of compassion, understanding, and inclusion.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all our speakers, partners, volunteers, and everyone who attended and contributed to making this event such a memorable part of the Hebridean Refugee Festival.

📷 Sradag Creative

30/06/2026

The first-ever Hebridean Refugee Festival has been hailed as a success after bringing together refugees and local residents from across the Western Isles for a week of events celebrating culture, friendship and belonging.

For the local news and events in the Western Isles, We Love Stornoway connects our island communities, highlighting key happenings and sharing positive stories.

29/06/2026

Food and Culture Festival

We were delighted to host the Food and Culture Festival at the Town Hall on Saturday, 20th June. The event was a great success, attracting hundreds of visitors who enjoyed tasting traditional dishes from a variety of countries, including Ukraine, Syria, Afghanistan, and Sudan.
The festival was held on last day of Hebridean Refugee Festival.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all the community members who prepared such wonderful food, and to everyone who attended and helped make the event so memorable.

27/06/2026

Home, Lost and Found: My Journey from Afghanistan to Scotland

We were delighted to welcome such a fantastic audience to "Home, Lost and Found: My Journey from Afghanistan to Scotland", featuring the powerful story of Murtaza Barlas as part of the Hebridean Refugee Festival 2026 on Friday 12th June at UHI.
The event saw a fantastic turnout, with attendees deeply engaged from beginning to end. Murtaza shared his personal journey with honesty, courage and warmth, reflecting on the challenges of leaving Afghanistan, rebuilding a life in Scotland, and finding hope, belonging and community along the way.
We are also grateful to our partners and supporters who helped make this event possible as part of Refugee Festival Scotland.
Together, we continue to celebrate the strength, diversity and contributions of refugee communities while building understanding and welcoming communities across the Hebrides.

📷 Sradag Creative

24/06/2026

For refugees, the safety they find is first priority

​Ten years ago, Stornoway made the headlines for welcoming two Syrian refugee families to the island as part of a government programme.

23/06/2026

Hebridean Refugee Festival was a wonderful celebration of diversity, friendship, and community spirit. This year is especially meaningful, as it marks ten years since the first refugees arrived on our island and became part of our community.

We are delighted that the BBC ALBA covered the event and highlighted the positive contributions refugees bring to our island.

19/06/2026

19/06/2026

Last night, the Hebridean Refugee Festival hosted a well-attended screening of Limbo at An Lanntair in Stornoway.
The event received a warm response from audiences, who appreciated the film’s sensitive and thought-provoking portrayal of the experiences of asylum seekers/refugees in Scotland. The screening provided an opportunity for reflection, dialogue, and community connection.