By Francine Sculli
For many young people from refugee backgrounds, finding spaces where they feel truly seen, heard, and valued can be challenging. Community events often focus on services for refugees, but few are designed by and for young people living that experience. The Harmony Block Party hosted by River Nile School is stepping into that gap — providing a space that is not just inclusive, but celebratory, strengths-focused, and youth-led.
Unlike traditional multicultural festivals, events like this one centre refugee and migrant youth not just as participants, but as creators, leaders, and storytellers. From the performances to the artwork, every aspect of the event reflects the lives, identities, and talents of young people who are often defined by their struggles rather than their strengths.
This approach matters. Young people from refugee backgrounds face barriers to social connection, cultural expression, and community leadership. Many arrive in Australia after experiencing displacement, interrupted education, and complex settlement challenges, yet mainstream events rarely hand them the microphone to share their stories on their own terms. A lack of culturally safe, youth-centred spaces can leave them feeling invisible in their own communities.
By putting refugee youth at the forefront, events like the Harmony Block Party change that dynamic. They create spaces where diverse identities are celebrated, lived experiences are honoured, and young people are empowered as leaders in their communities. More than just entertainment, they serve as a critical model for how inclusion should look — not as an invitation to join, but as a platform to lead.
If Melbourne is serious about building a truly inclusive community, we need more events like this — where refugee youth don’t just belong, they take centre stage.
Keen on feeling the vibes of a refugee-youth led event? Why not come along to the Harmony Block Party – on Thursday 3rd April 2025, to celebrate them? River Nile School’s Harmony Block Party Tickets, Thu 03/04/2025 at 2:00 pm | Eventbrite
