Intercultural Gala, lots of fun, dancing and a delicious meal

THE South Dublin Migrant Integration Forum (SDMIF) and IACI (Integration of All Children in Ireland) had a fun-filled December, with a well-attended end of year party and an Intercultural Gala.

Over 50 people attended the gala in the Maldron Hotel in Tallaght in mid-December, including Cllr Guss O’Connell, who opened the inaugural IACI Intercultural Gala in Lucan in 2016 when he was mayor.

The glittering night was a highpoint in the group’s social calendar, especially as this was the first time it was held in person since the pandemic.

Yemi Ojo, the founder and CEO of IACI, told The Echo: “The aim of the Intercultural Gala Night is to celebrate and empower relationships with talks, fun games, dancing, a delicious meal and awards.

“At every annual gala event, we present various awards including couple of the year, best dancer, best dressed, best swag, table quiz winner and the most sociable awards.

“The big winner of the event was Couple of the Year winner Dr Yomi and Mrs Funmi Ogunsanya who received gifts and awards.”

She added: “We were happy to have Cllr Guss O’Connell and his wife Jacklyn back this year for the 7th anniversary of the Intercultural Gala Night.”

Ms Ojo, who lives in Jobstown, was also involved in the SDMIF’s end of year party, which was held in Tallaght Library on December 2.

Over 40 people attended the party, including children who were spellbound when special guest Santa appeared in the library and gave them gifts.

Ms Ojo, who is also the chairperson of the SDMIF, said: “It was a fun and happy day. Appreciation to the Tallaght Library for being a great host as always.

“As the chair of the SDMIF, I would like to thank my team members of the SDMIF executives for their support and commitment.

“We were able to meet the goals set from last yearby organising all our annual events, and the employment and back-to-education fair with over 120 in attendance, likewise the awareness and information-sharing seminar for new arrivals, with over 50 in attendance.

“We are looking forward to a prosperous 2024 with impactful events. Merry Christmas everyone.”