Join Hope for Refugees International and partners from across Ontario for the Pre-World Refugee Day Celebration 2025, a vibrant community event bringing together over 300 refugees, asylum seekers, newcomers, service providers, allies, policymakers, students, and supporters to honor the strength, resilience, and contributions of refugee communities.
Held ahead of World Refugee Day (June 20), this year’s theme, “Together We Thrive: Building Solidarity and Celebrating Refugee Resilience, Culture, and Community,” invites us to reflect, connect, and act in solidarity with those who have been forced to flee their homes.
This half-day celebration is more than an event—it is a platform for refugee voices, a festival of culture, and a community space for healing, storytelling, wellness, and empowerment.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
- Opening Ceremony & Keynote Address Featuring local dignitaries, refugee leaders, and community champions
- Cultural Performances & Showcases Live music, spoken word, drumming, drag acts, folk dance, and fashion shows
- Creative Corners & Collaborative Art Refugee-led art exhibits, youth art stations, mural painting & storytelling
- Talent Show & Open Mic Featuring refugee and newcomer artists with prizes and community judges
- Wellness & Healing Zone Guided relaxation, healing circles, mental health resources, and self-care kits
- Panels & Storytelling Sessions Real stories from refugees and asylum seekers on resilience, culture, and belonging
- Community Resource Market Service booths offering immigration, housing, health, employment, legal, and education resources
- Free Giveaways! Grocery gift cards, hygiene kits, books, children’s items, and more!
- Culturally Diverse Foods Enjoy a community meal with delicious food from refugee-led caterers and cultural chefs
- Solidarity Awards Ceremony Honoring individuals and organizations who have shown outstanding commitment to refugee empowerment and inclusion
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
- Refugees, asylum seekers, and newcomers
- Social workers, case managers, and service providers
- Students, youth, and educators
- Policymakers, researchers, and city leaders
- Artists, performers, and cultural groups
- Anyone passionate about refugee rights, equity, and community building
WHY ATTEND?
- Celebrate and honor the strength and resilience of refugees
- Connect with community organizations, employers, and resource providers
- Learn more about refugee journeys and the importance of inclusive communities
- Show your solidarity through presence, participation, and shared humanity
- Leave with inspiration, knowledge, and tools for advocacy and action