Cork Migrant Centre dedicated to creating a 'more inclusive society' for almost two decades 

The Cork Migrant Centre (CMC) at Nano Nagle Place has been empowering migrant people, families and communities in Cork for almost two decades.

Established in 2006 by the Presentation Sisters, the CMC provides free, confidential, and current information on access to services and immigration issues.

The centre is committed to advocating on behalf of migrant children, families, and communities, and to ensure they have access to the services and s they need to alleviate the day-to-day challenges.

It also aims to provide them with the best possible opportunities to empower them individually and collectively.

The CMC creates ‘safe spaces’ for migrants as well as integration opportunities and collaborations with organisations across Cork and further afield — all with the goal of creating and enhancing opportunities for equality and equity.

Dr Naomi Masheti, programme coordinator of the CMC, was recently recognised for her pioneering work in advancing migrant rights and social inclusion.

Not only was Dr Masheti awarded the University College Cork Alumni Achievement Award, but she was also named as one of the outstanding women to feature in Accenture’s Women on Walls at UCC.

Dr Masheti has made significant strides in empowering migrant communities, particularly through the establishment of a psychosocial wellbeing hub. This approach moves beyond traditional individual-focused models, using a community-based framework drawn from humanitarian settings.

It prioritises human dignity and is rooted in a strength-based, human rights perspective, a shift away from conventional charity models.

Some of the key projects Dr Masheti leads include a culturally relevant parenting programme, a peer-led textile social enterprise called Saoirse Ethnic Hands on Deck, and a peer-led youth group that has led the way in advocating for social and racial justice through creativity, and pioneered anti-racist youth summits in Ireland.

These initiatives help bring people together and empower migrant communities to create positive change.

Dr Masheti works with local, national, and international partners, including universities, government agencies, and charities, to build evidence-based practices that improve the lives of migrants.

Reflecting on her achievements, Dr Masheti said: “I am deeply humbled by these recognitions.

“These awards reflect the collective strength of the community at the Cork Migrant Centre, Nano Nagle Place, and our shared commitment to creating a more inclusive society.

“I dedicate this honour to my colleagues, the migrants and refugees we , and everyone who helps drive positive change.”

John Smith, CEO of Nano Nagle Place, shared his iration for Dr Masheti’s leadership: “Dr Masheti’s unwavering dedication to uplifting migrant communities is nothing short of inspiring.

“Her tireless work to promote inclusion and empowerment is integral to the mission of Nano Nagle Place,” he added.

“We are incredibly proud to have her as a leader in our organisation, and this recognition is a testament to the transformative work she continues to do.”

Nano Nagle Place also proudly highlighted that Nano Nagle herself was featured in Accenture’s Women on Walls at UCC, celebrating her groundbreaking contributions to education and social justice.

The local heritage museum stated that the recognition of both Nano Nagle and Dr Masheti underscores their shared legacy of empowering marginalised communities and fostering an inclusive, comionate society.

One project at the CMC has been giving a voice to younger migrants in Cork.

The CMC works with a group of young people who have come together under the banner of Sauti, a Swahili word meaning ‘voice’. 

Sauti is a youth-led movement that empowers young people to use their creativity to combat social injustices.

Through music, poetry, creative writing, visual arts and more, the Sauti group are finding innovative ways to collaborate, express themselves, and drive change.

One of Sauti’s projects in 2024 was the creation of a mural in Turner’s Cross, a collaborative effort that was part of their broader involvement in the recent anti-racism summit.

Speaking to The Echo when the mural was revealed earlier this year, a spokesperson for the Cork Migrant Centre at Nano Nagle Place said: “This mural is an artwork and a powerful statement of inclusivity, opportunity, community, and a deep sense of belonging.

“Through facilitated workshops led by Creativity and Change, the young artists immersed themselves in discussions and brainstorming sessions for weeks to decide what the mural should represent.

“They explored the essence of Cork, reflecting on what makes this city unique. One particularly poignant symbol they chose to feature was the ‘Echo Boy’, a familiar figure outside the GPO, whose chant has become a part of the city’s soundscape,” he added.

“Through this mural, they aim to spread a message of safety, empowerment, and inclusion — not just in Cork but throughout the country.

“The Cork Migrant Centre’s Sauti initiative group is a testament to the belief that local actions can have an impact.

“In this mural, they have captured their voices and the spirit of a community that embraces diversity and the power of creativity to drive social change,” the spokesperson concluded.