Physical Workshop, Training or Seminar

ReThink adult training.

More about ReThink

This free programme is designed to empower participants through Creativity, Connection, and Good Relations. Whether you’re a community leader, youth worker, or volunteer ReThink offers a fresh, engaging approach to building understanding and challenging bias.

Led by an executive coach and an artist from WheelWorks, ReThink offers:

• 2 interactive half-days
• A free art pack and lunch
• A certificate of attendance
• A Good Relations toolkit
• A celebration showcase!
What to Expect:

Creative workshops using art and storytelling.
Practical tools to support inclusion and challenge stereotypes.
Opportunities to connect with others and share experiences.

Who is it for: Adults living or working in the Mid & East Antrim and Antrim & Newtownabbey areas who want to make a positive impact in their communities.
Get Involved: Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

Let’s ReThink together – and build stronger, more inclusive communities.

This Fully Funded training blends reflective and arts-based practice with fresh ways to connect across differences to help you:

• Boost confidence
• Explore culture & identity
• Challenge bias and prejudice
• Connect with peers across identities

We’re excited to hear from you, get in touch with Jodi via services@wheelworksarts.com

# Register your place today for training in Larne, Co. Antrim. WHEN: 29th & 30th of October 2025, 10am to 2pm WHERE: Larne Community Hub, (Access Employment) 32-34 Pound St, Larne BT40 1SQ BOOK: www.eventbrite.com/e/rethink-tickets places are limited

‘First They Ignore You’ – book launch and panel discussion

Belfast Exposed is proud to announce the launch of First They Ignore You, a striking new photobook by artist and photographer Sheila Chakravarti, on 16 October 2025. The publication explores the lived realities of racism in Belfast, offering a vital platform for immigrants, asylum seekers, and refugees whose voices are often marginalised.

Through intimate photographic portraits, Chakravarti challenges the way people affected by racism are represented. While each sitter has experienced racial abuse, the artist resists presenting them as victims. Instead, she captures their resilience, strength of character, and sense of humour. The result is a powerful body of work that refuses pity and calls for solidarity.

Sheila Chakravarti said:
“I wanted to create a book that shows people not as victims, but as who they truly are — strong, resilient, and full of humour, even in the face of racism. These portraits are about dignity and presence, about being seen and heard in a society that too often turns away.”

Deirdre Robb, CEO of Belfast Exposed, said:
“At Belfast Exposed, we are committed to amplifying voices and stories that too often go unheard. Sheila’s work is powerful because it both confronts the reality of racism in Northern Ireland and celebrates the humanity of those who live through it. With racism reported at the highest levels in the UK here, this book and the conversations around it could not be more urgent or necessary.”

Recent reports highlight that Northern Ireland has the highest levels of racism in the UK, an issue brought into sharper focus with the recent increase in migration to the region. ‘First They Ignore You’ arrives at a crucial time, sparking dialogue and understanding while celebrating the humanity of those at its centre.

The launch event will also feature an expert panel discussion titled No Pity Party, exploring three key areas of racism in Northern Ireland:

Housing and attacks on homes – Photographer Takura
Workplace racism – Andy George (President, National Black Police Association UK) & Beverly Simpson (NHS)
Islamophobia – Ali Conn

Event Details:
First They Ignore You – Book Launch & Panel Discussion
Date: Thursday 16 October 2025
Venue: Belfast Exposed Photography
Admission: Free (booking recommended)

Women in Heritage

Women in Heritage, as part of Twenty-Fifth Literature of Irish Exile Autumn School, will take place in Mellon Centre for Migration Studies on Saturday 18 October – Don’t miss it!

Guest speakers include Gemma and Bryonie Reid, Bronagh Mc Atasney, Laura Augiar and Emma McAleer

Booking essential –

028 8225 6315

mcms@librariesni.org.uk

Kintsugi Workshop– Restoring Through Brokenness

Kintsugi; the Japanese art of repairing
broken pottery with gold, teaches us
that cracks and fractures can become
sites of beauty, strength, and renewal.
In this hands-on workshop, we explore
Kintsugi not only as a creative practice but
as a powerful metaphor for healing and
restoring parts of ourselves.
Through the mindful process of piecing
together what is broken, we reflect on
our own journeys of loss, resilience, and
transformation. Just as Kintsugi honours
the story of an object rather than hiding
its damage, this practice invites us to
embrace our imperfections and see them
as a source of wisdom and strength.
Come join us in this gentle space
of creativity and reflection, where
brokenness becomes a pathway to
wholeness, connection, and hope. This
workshop will be delivered by the founder
of Voicing the Void, Rory Doherty.
No artistic experience is needed; simply
curiosity and a willingness to explore. All materials provided.

Diversity Equity and Inclusion workshops

Diversity Equity and Inclusion workshops for Loreto College & Coleraine Grammar. This will be a series of workshops called “For Over Ten Thousand Years.” Students will learn a range of topics related to Diversity Equity & Inclusion including History of Migration, Hate Crime and a Human Library with 5 Cultural Ambassadors. In partnership with BCRC.

Good Relations Needs Assessment Conference

Good Relations Needs Assessment Conference (in partnership with ABC Council, Ark Housing and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive)

Thursday 16^th October

9.30am-1.30pm

Armagh City Hotel

This conference brings together community, voluntary and statutory groups from across the Armagh area to identify and discuss the key needs, opportunities and priorities within our community. The conference will be facilitated by Tides Training & Consultancy.

It will be an opportunity to:

Share your views and experiences
Network with other organisations and partners
Help shape the future of Good Relations Work in Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council

Outreach Irish language classes for beginners

Never had the chance to learn Irish? Interested in exploring the language that is all around you?

Our classes are specifically tailored to suit the needs of those who have had limited access to the language. If you have lived here all your life or you have moved here to make this place your home, we can help you start your journey into the Irish language.

Outreach Irish language class for beginners

In celebration of Good Relations Week 2024 and its theme of ‘OpportUNITY,’ Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin are offering an Outreach Irish Language Class for Beginners. This event is designed for those who have had limited access to learning Irish, whether you have lived here all your life or have recently made this place your home. Our tailored classes provide a welcoming introduction to the Irish language, reflecting the week’s focus on embracing cultural diversity and fostering unity through shared learning experiences. Join in to start your journey into the Irish language and connect with the rich cultural heritage that surrounds us.

Felden Gathering Drum Circle

The Gathering Drum in association with Clanmil Housing are hosting a ‘Gathering Drum’ event on Friday 23rd September in celebration of Good Relations Week 2022.

This event will focus on the music and rhythms of African and Calypso drumming. To complement the Gathering Drum, workshops will also be held that will include ethnically styled mask making and decoration.

Food and refreshments will also be supplied.

This event is open to all!

Glenwherry Gathering Drum Circle

The Gathering Drum in association with Clanmil Housing are hosting a ‘Gathering Drum’ event on Thursday 22nd September in celebration of Good Relations Week 2022.

Food and refreshments will also be supplied.

This event is open to all!