Cyprus is home to a diverse migrant population, many of whom face limited opportunities for social and professional integration. Migrant creatives often lack platforms to showcase their artistic and cultural skills, while negative perceptions of migration can impede inclusion and mutual understanding. Co-tailors for Future is creating spaces for cultural exchange, capacity building and creative expression in a context of increasing diversity.

Key elements:

• four weeks of online courses for 25 emerging creative talents from migrant backgrounds
• workshops and capacity-building presentations with artists and EU experts
• the Intercultural Festival & Bazaar a fashion show by the project finalists and a presentation of crafts by artists

The initiative sets out to equip participants with the skills, networks and confidence needed to thrive in creative and economic landscapes both in Cyprus and more broadly in Europe. It aims to counter negative narratives around migration, to emphasise diversity as an asset, and to foster inclusive growth through creative industries.

As a young creator and migrant in Cyprus, I finally had the chance to express my ideas and collaborate with people who value inclusion and creativity. I’m grateful for the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.

Jacqueline Noumadenou (Togo), participant and finalist of the project

In October the project culminated in a public showcase: a festival featuring a bazaar of crafts and designs, and a fashion show of selected creations. The festival provided a visible platform for participants to present their work to the broader audience, highlighting cultural diversity through design, craftsmanship and styling. Reaching a wide audiences helped shift public perception on migration by celebrating diversity and creativity and develop a creative output for artists of what would remain unseen otherwise.

This project gave us a platform to share our culture and skills while learning from others. It showed us that diversity is a strength and that creativity can connect people beyond language or background.

Stephane Noel Tchouanteu (Cameroon), coordinator of the project, member of the migrant community in Cyprus

The project leaves behind a legacy of networks, skills and a model for inclusive cultural collaboration. Future developments could include mentorship residencies or the replication of the model in other regions or countries.