Connections wasn’t just a theatre project. It was a place where young people from refugee and asylum-seeking backgrounds across the Highlands could find their voices, make friends, and grow in confidence.
Run by Compass Collective in partnership with Eden Court and Inspiring Young Voices, weekly drama workshops offered a welcoming, supportive space. Here, the young participants could practise their English, make new friendships, and build their confidence through creativity.
Taking to the stage
In April, the group performed at Eden Court in Inverness for an audience of 170. The standing ovation was a huge milestone, especially for those performing in English for the very first time.
Encouraged by that success, the young people went on to create another performance for Eden Court’s Youth Arts Festival in June. They also enjoyed trips and took part in a Community Sports Day during Refugee Festival Scotland.
Altogether, 48 young people joined in, including participants from the Afghan Relocation and Assistance Scheme in Inverness and at Cameron Barracks, and unaccompanied asylum-seeking children. Three of them even became Youth Leaders, stepping into their first paid roles in the UK.
Impact and learning
Across 22 sessions, every participant reported improvements in English and confidence.
A young participant shared their thoughts on the experience: “In the beginning I didn’t think that many people would be coming. I was surprised and nervous. We did good and I am happy about the performance. I am ready for more drama classes with you.”
One of the youth leaders added: “A lot of people came to watch us. They listened, watched, clapped, and smiled. Their support meant so much. It made me feel proud, seen, and valued. Through our stories, the audience learned more about our cultures, traditions, and what it’s like to start a new life in a different country.”
Project Coordinator, Mhairi Gayer, said: “I looked forward to our sessions every week. The young people brought so much energy, creativity. and joy. They chose to perform in English and practiced reading letters they had written to a friend, gradually building their clarity, volume and confidence. It was incredible to see the transformation in confidence and self expression in such a short space of time. None of it would have been possible without our strong partnership with Eden Court and Inspiring Young Voices, and the fantastic support from Aberlour and Guardianship Scotland, the Highland Council and our funders.”
