About Waterford NCN

We are a non-profit voluntary organisation aiming to create an umbrella organisation for local migrant groups and individuals. Our goal is to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment by harnessing the strength of our diverse community for the benefit of all residents in County Waterford. Our target group includes the broader migrant community, focusing on long-term integration and leveraging their contributions through lived experiences, skills, and knowledge.

WNCN aims to build a supportive and connected community through various activities:

  • Outreach: Mapping local migrant groups and engaging key community figures.
  • New Communities Business Network: Promoting migrant businesses and connecting Irish and migrant business owners.
  • Networking Events: Facilitating connections and collaboration.
  • Skill-Sharing Workshops: Providing opportunities for individuals to share their skills.
  • Cultural Exchange Programs: Celebrating Irish and migrant cultural heritage, promoting cultural awareness.
  • Support Initiatives: Building a resilient and connected community.

Background:

Co. Waterford is a diverse and dynamic county, and there exists a vibrant population of migrants who bring unique perspectives, skills, and experiences. However, there is a need for a structured network that can facilitate communication, cultural exchange, and mutual assistance among members of the migrant communities, and to support their access to services. Throughout the year, we host Together Tuesdays, a weekly gathering initiative, where migrants and locals can get to know each other better in a warm, friendly setting with refreshments provided. Each week there is a different theme, such as community music nights, where members of the community can pop in to play piano and connect through their favourite songs. There will also be the WNCN’s popular story exchanges, as well as information nights on legal advice and advocacy. All the above events are free and open to the public.

Every summer, WNCN hosts a multicultural festival called A Slice of Culture, in collaboration with local migrant communities. The initiative began in 2020 and has evolved into an ongoing yearly initiative. The Slice of Culture festival promises to be good fun each year, connecting the Waterford community with other cultures and traditions such as food, music, and dance.