Integration of African Children in Ireland (IACI)

Annual Events

Annual food fair for integration projects - since 2004 this event has been the initiative of
IACI. It started at the Dublin branch and was launched by the Minister for Foreign Affairs.
Due to its positive impact, there have been more than ten Food Fair events organised in all
four branches across Ireland. The most recent food fair (Inner-City branch) was in
collaboration with An Garda Siochana. Presented were the Minister for Integration Conor
Lenihan along with 1,000 young people representing 25 schools and 5 youth services. The
aim of the project is to promote integration among immigrants and their host country
in celebration of different cultures in one accord.
Monthly youth activities - including music and arts
Summer camps for promoting integration - A three week summer camp for kids from 4-16 years of age aimed to promote integration of African children into the Irish society. Many fun activities are included (jewelry making, face painting, trip to Fortlucan and An Garda, arts and crafts, etc). It is supported by DCC, Co. VEC, CYC, St. Mealruins Parish, and SDCC. The entire project is ran by volunteers.
End of the year project
Easter/St. Patrick's Day project
Art Exhibition
One-World week project (sponsored by National Youth Council of Ireland) - Takes place every November, encourage young people to take action and ownership of local issues.
Events with CADIC (Coalition Against the Deportation of Irish Children)
Youth exchange with UK though music and group work - Promoting integration by meeting people from different cultures. Supported by Leargas through EU Youth Programme.
MYPA (Multicultural Young People Award) - An award to recognise outstanding accomplishment of secondary level students in a wide variety of categories. It celebrates the hard work and contribution of young people and at the same time, raises cultural awareness. For more information, please read the nomination form posted in the Forms section of Get Involved.
Cultural diversity training and intercultural childcare training with teachers, An Garda, parents, youths, providers, etc
Basic childcare training with mothers
Personal development trainings with aged-out minors and young people
Youth for Integration Conference - Provide young people from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to discuss issues that affect them and their expectations in a Multicultural Ireland. It provides a platform for discussion on challenges, benefits, hopes, fears, expectations, recommendations, etc.