Memorable moments from Nation of Sanctuary Awards

From people experienced in the asylum system to the governing bodies who can provide support, we meet people every day who are passionate about Wales’s migration story of the past and present.

Last month we were lucky enough to be in a whole room of these inspiring individuals to celebrate the Nation of Sanctuary Awards at Cornerstone Cardiff. Join us as we look back at 7 highlights from the night!

Three award nominees smiling and holding their certificates.

1. Original Award Categories 

This year we had 9 Award Categories to help us recognise the different and amazing ways sanctuary seekers and organisations are helping to make Wales a Nation of Sanctuary. The categories included the Welsh Learner of the Year, Rising Star Award, and the Nation of Sanctuary Award. Valuing these contributions is such a crucial step toward building a more inclusive, cohesive, and compassionate Wales.

Woman speaking into microphone.

2. A Fabulous Host

Actress and ally Carys Eleri joined us again for this year’s celebrations as the evening’s host. She brought light and passion to the ceremony as well as hosting it bilingually. Diolch yn fawr iawn, Carys!

3. Sponsors Who Care

The Awards would not be possible without the support of our superstar sponsor organisations. Thank you for your generosity towards to the event. You are crucial to helping us celebrate the achievements of sanctuary seekers and the groups promoting an equitable Wales in 2024.

Woman speaking into a microphone on stage.

4. Voices For Change

We heard from lots of speakers and sponsors at the Awards ceremony, though we started big with our CEO Andrea Cleaver who talked about the role we all have to play in making Wales a Nation of Sanctuary. This commitment was echoed by Anne Hinchey (Chief Executive of our headline sponsor Wales & West Housing Group), Joseff Gnagbo (Chair of Cymdeithas yr Iaith), and a video message from the First Minister Vaughan Gething.

5. A Refugee Week Celebration

Being in a room with so much joy, passion, and enthusiasm for the contributions of sanctuary seekers felt like the perfect place to start our Refugee Week celebrations! We love getting together with our awesome friends and colleagues on nights like these.

Hanan Issa.

6. Talented Performances

The melodies of Ukrainian Duet of Bandurists welcomed guests into the venue and accompanied later elements of the evening. We were also very lucky to be joined by National Poet of Wales Hanan Issa, who shared some new and familiar pieces with the room.

Two women presented with a certificate on stage.

7. Award Nominees That Shine

Who can forget the incredible nominees and award winners themselves! The Nation of Sanctuary Awards gives refugee communities and those with lived experience the space to tell their story, in their own words. It also celebrates the welcoming movement in Wales, which is growing every year. The night belonged to our nominees and all that they have achieved. We are so grateful to everyone who joined us in celebrating the people who are accomplishing the amazing every day.

Thank you all for such an inspiring evening! Roll on next year.

Sponsors for the Nation of Sanctuary Awards 2024