On Monday 6th October, The Welcoming Association held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Cornerstone Centre in Edinburgh. It was an evening that went beyond reports and formalities, becoming a space for reflection, gratitude, and a powerful reminder of why community cohesion matters now more than ever.
As our Chair, Keith Watson, CEO, Tesfu Gessesse, and Honorary President, Amadu Khan reminded us in their speeches, this is a moment of challenge as well as opportunity. With rising far-right rhetoric and growing pressures on communities across Scotland, it has never been more important to stand together. The Welcoming is committed to creating a Scotland where New Scots and local communities live, learn, and thrive side by side, and our AGM was a chance to show that work in action.
Celebrating service and welcoming new leadership
We said a fond farewell to Graeme Gibson, our Treasurer for over 6 years, who has guided the organisation with dedication and expertise. We also welcomed new Treasurer, Olufunmilade Adetogun, and new Board member, Abdul Rahman Sabir, both of whom bring vital experience and passion to our mission. Their leadership will help us navigate the challenges ahead with confidence and clarity.
Voices of our community
The heart of the evening came from our members and volunteers. Polly and Maryam, both Welcoming members, and volunteer Catharine, shared personal stories of how the charity has shaped their journeys in Edinburgh. Their words highlighted what numbers alone cannot capture, and that is the real human impact of connection, learning, and belonging.
Showcasing our work
Interactive stalls gave guests the chance to engage directly with staff and our lovely volunteers, ask questions, and learn about the wide range of services and projects The Welcoming delivers, from English classes and employability support to gardening, art evenings, and community events.
And of course, no Welcoming event would be complete without food. Thanks to Lazeez Tandoori, we enjoyed a delicious spread, with the delicious baklava quickly becoming a talking point of the night!
Looking ahead
Tesfu’s reflections highlighted the vital role of volunteers, 123 people who collectively gave 3,656 hours of their time this year, without whom none of our work would be possible. He also underlined the importance of working alongside other organisations to strengthen community cohesion and resist division.
Our AGM 2025 showed what solidarity looks like: people from all walks of life, coming together to reflect, celebrate, and recommit to a more inclusive Scotland.
At a time when division is rising, The Welcoming stands firm in its belief that empathy, collaboration, and compassion are the antidotes. We will continue to build a Scotland that truly welcomes all.
