11/06/2026
Small Worlds experiential workshops: changing hearts and minds.
Small Worlds are cafe-style events providing a safe space for participants to encounter others whose lived experience originates from different parts of the world and, more recently, as that of asylum seekers, refugees and migrants.
How it works: workshops usually begin with a short introduction to the asylum-seeking/refugee context. Following this, small groups of 4-6 meet hosts from different countries for 15-20 minutes at a time. Hosts introduce themselves and answer questions about their life stories and their reasons for coming to Northern Ireland. Participants then move on to visit another ‘Small World’ until they have met most of the hosts. Typical workshops last around two hours, with 20-24 participants and four hosts.
Typical participant feedback from Small Worlds:
• ‘It will stay with me that every name we see on the screen has a very important story to tell’. (policy maker)
• 'Amazing - challenging stereotypes & widening horizons'. (youth worker)
• 'Opened my mind to the world' (community group member)
• ‘Extremely informative, worthwhile workshop. A different view to immigration issues’. (Law Society member)
• 'An excellent, informative event with gracious and interesting hosts. Recommend this to any organization'. (policy maker)
• 'Mind blowing to hear stories of people of courage, integrity and bravery. Challenging beyond words'. (community worker)
Workshop clients
Since 2009, our clients have included all borough and city Councils, the Executive Office, Human Rights Commission, EA, DoC, DoF, PSNI, NIHE, Radius, Woven, Apex and Connswater housing associations, schools, youth and community groups and faith-based organisations.