Refugee Arts Bazaar
Greater Austin YMCA - Austin, TX
December 21, 2023
Refugees from Ukraine, Afghanistan Offer Hand-Made Goods at TownLake YMCA Holiday Bazaar
One hundred percent of proceeds will directly support refugees
“The TownLake YMCA will transform into an international bazaar on Saturday, December 30, from 9am to 1pm as the Y partners with Global Impact Initiative (GII) to host a Refugee Holiday Arts and Crafts Bazaar. The TownLake YMCA is located at 1100 W. Cesar Chavez near Lamar Blvd.
The free community event features the work of refugees from Ukraine and Afghanistan who have recently settled in Austin. The artisans will be showcasing hand-made goods including jewelry, handbags, dresses, leather goods, candles, decorative cushions, paintings, and fresh-baked pastries and treats. One hundred percent of proceeds go directly to the vendors.
‘These incredibly talented men and women are trying to rebuild their lives through entrepreneurship, drawing from their unique cultural heritage,’ said Anjum Malik, CEO of Global Impact Initiative. ‘We know Austin is a welcoming community that shows its support for those in need, and we encourage everyone to come learn more about these cultures and people by celebrating their artistic craftsmanship.’
Since the start of the conflict in Ukraine as well as the United States’ withdrawal from Afghanistan, more than 3,000 refugees have settled in Central Texas. Through organizations like GII, many have found employment in a variety of sectors such as food processing facilities, commercial driving, and hospitality. Refugees are also participating in intensive English-as-a-second language (ESL) classes at the HOFT Institute.
‘YMCAs have a long history of providing support to people in times of conflict and welcoming our newest neighbors to America,’ said Shaq Brown, Associate Vice President of Operations for the Greater Austin YMCA. ‘The Y will be collaborating with Gii and providing more services to the refugee community such as free memberships, mental health counseling, and recreational programming.’”
