This autumn, The Welcoming Association’s CEO Tesfu Gessesse shares a heartfelt message about unity, compassion, and the importance of protecting Scotland’s proud tradition of welcome.
At a time when divisive voices are growing louder, Tesfu reminds us that the far-right’s anger and fear do not reflect the values of most Scots. Scotland’s true strength lies in its kindness, fairness, and community spirit – in the quiet, everyday actions of neighbours helping neighbours, volunteers teaching English, and local people opening their doors to New Scots.
“We cannot remain idle while our shared values are under threat. We must rebuild trust and belonging where others aim to sow division.”
That commitment to connection runs throughout this edition of our Autumn Newsletter. We celebrate new beginnings – from our Bridges to Success graduates and the ESOL for Employability (STEP) project to the continuation of our Welcoming Friendship Project, now supported by the National Lottery Community Fund.
We also highlight new partnerships with the Granton Information Centre and Edinburgh Remakery, ensuring our members can access vital advice, digital resources, and financial support.
Our work continues to grow thanks to the dedication of volunteers and partners across the city. From community outings at the Edinburgh Fringe to the expansion of our Holistic Casework Service and upcoming Volunteer Befriender recruitment, every initiative reflects Tesfu’s call to action – to turn compassion into something tangible, practical, and lasting.
In his message, Tesfu urges us all to stand firm against division and defend Scotland’s welcoming spirit. As he writes, we are reminded that “the fight for justice and equality does not only take place in parliaments or headlines; it happens in our communities, every day.”
You can read Tesfu’s full statement, along with all the latest news and updates from The Welcoming Association, in our Autumn Newsletter:
Want to be part of a community standing up for compassion and inclusion in Scotland?
Subscribe to The Welcoming Newsletter to hear how you can make a difference through action, connection, and solidarity.