On the 14th of August, I visited Banbury’s Sunrise Multicultural Project’s Men’s club.
The Sunrise Multicultural Project hold a ‘Men’s Cooking and Games Drop-in’ every Wednesday from 11:30am-1:30pm, in partnership with the Banbury Larder. I was welcomed to their meeting space, at the Britannia Road Children’s Centre, where they meet weekly.
The group regularly hold cookery lessons, health talks, play games and provide a space for social activities. I was able to take part in some of this, playing board games, eating with members, and chatting with the local men.
The Sunrise Multicultural Project aims to foster connection between people from all backgrounds, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. They believe shared activities, open dialogue, safe spaces for those from all backgrounds and empowerment can be found by creating a safe community for all. They also promote cultural exchange, lifelong learning and collaboration, and are dedicated to relieving the charitable needs of ethnic minority families in Banbury and surrounding areas.
The members of the group welcomed me with open arms, and it was great to be involved in such a special community project that provides members with a safe space to socialise with others and learn new skills.
Community groups and projects like this build vital social cohesion and participation, the importance of which cannot be understated. Our diversity, and our values, make Banbury stronger, and I am grateful that members have the opportunity to talk and learn alongside each other in such a warm and friendly environment.