The event, held at Lyle Kirk on Union Street, showcased the talents of refugees from all over the world who have settled in Inverclyde. Members of Your Voice's New Scots drop-in, hosted every Friday by Gaynor Lochhead, came up with ideas for the festival. Gaynor helped bring the refugee community's vision to life in the event, which welcomed between 300 and 400 people.
She said the event 'surpassed all expectations'. Gaynor added: "We're absolutely delighted with how it all went and it was great to see months of planning come to fruition. "We've had really positive feedback from everyone and we're determined the event will be even bigger and better next year.
"This was a great way to start us off." New Scots set up an amazing array of stalls to show off their products and their skills. Everyone visiting the festival was wowed by beautiful jewellery, lovingly crafted knitted and crocheted toys, and tasty food.
Chefs created incredible dishes for visitors to enjoy, and visitors enjoyed musical performances spanning a range of different cultures. Ladies were also treated to makeovers in the wellbeing room. Gaynor said it was fantastic to see so many members of the Inverclyde community joining together with New Scots for the celebration.
She added: "People who have been in our community for many years came here to support our refugee community which is so diverse now. "It was really great to see that. "There was a real sense of unity and calm throughout the whole event.
" Seyar Qa.
