Actually, an Architect, a Civil Engineer, Mechanical Engineer and a Barber. It hasn't quite got the same ring to it but this was some of the former and much missed, occupations of those in attendance at our recent Men's Group as part of MCFB's Safe Haven Project for Syrian Refugees.

Omar (not his real name) was keen just to get his hands on the heavy-duty tools available in the Edinburgh Hacklab set up. They have an inclusive approach to sharing technology and knowledge and welcomed the group to their premises in Summerhall.

Hector took all of 3 minutes to assess that Omar knew exactly what to do with several of the tools and they then engaged in deep (to me) technical discussion about the metal turning Lathe (I confess I had to look this thing up!) Aided by a volunteer interpreter, himself a Syrian refugee, again with former experience in engineering and management.  Omar and Hector discussed the finer points of mechanics and engineering. For my part I was heartened to see such concentration and clear enjoyment for Omar in getting his hands on some familiar and not so familiar tools of his trade.

Others were interested in the various 3D printers available, Computer Aided Design (CAD)  technology to then go on the produce a Quran stand having mastered the Laser Cutter.

A great way to spend a Sunday afternoon, many thanks to all that made this happen, Edinburgh Hacklab collaborators, volunteers and the ever-imaginative and creative, Science Celidh lead, Lewis Hou. Gemma adapted her own skills and stepped in to handle running a "creche" for 8 - 16-year old's (no mean feat)  which meant parents could contribute. One of our social work student colleagues has already opted to join this for next time Gemma!

We are working hard to engage interpreters and to assist others to access opportunities to learn a new language, to such a level that they could perhaps work in their chosen (studied) field again. The sessions continue until Christmas and beyond. 

Thanks to my colleagues Saad and Emma for letting me join and to the group for making me welcome, oh and Omar for reassuring me that there was no way anyone could have changed that wheel and it was indeed a job for a trained mechanic ( last week's flat tyre drama)!

So, perhaps when we are a little tired or frustrated with work tasks and dream of the joys of doing nothing, think of what you would miss about your craft, whatever that may be, the camaraderie or the satisfaction of completing a job well done. You might just miss it after a while. 

Anne Spiers, December 2021

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New Scots connect

Men from our weekly wellbeing group for refugee men have been involved in a new Scottish Refugee Council initiative called 'New Scots connect'.  The initiative is a network of community groups around Scotland which aims to bring together organisations and groups to learn from each other, sharing expertise with New Scots who have found refuge in Scotland.

As a lead partner of this initiative, we have been running weekly Science and Technology workshops in partnership with Lewis Hou (Science Ceilidh) and Edinburgh Hacklab at Summerhall. The workshops are aimed at bringing together professionals from the science and technology industries with refugees and migrants of diverse backgrounds and providing opportunities to network and learn.