Aug 24, 2026
Stories, voices and conversations about migrant inclusion
On August 31, a Living Library dedicated to the theme of Migrant Inclusion will take place in Postojna, Slovenia, promoted by Impact Hub Istra. The initiative offers a space for meeting, listening and dialogue on a theme that is central to building more welcoming and cohesive local communities.
The event is part of the European project COTAF - Connected Towns for a Shared Future (funded under the CERV - Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values programme of the European Commission), which promotes intercultural dialogue and active participation through the direct involvement of local communities.
The meeting will open with a welcome from the Impact Hub Istra team, together with the two local organisations involved in the initiative. PUMo Postojna provides educational support to young adults and helps young migrants complete their primary education, learn the language and become part of the local community. Sangai is a local initiative created by residents to support the integration of the Nepalese community that has settled in the area.
The Format
The Living Library is a participatory format that originated in Denmark and has spread across Europe. Its "living books" are real people who share their stories with readers through brief and authentic conversations, breaking down prejudice and opening spaces for mutual understanding. The COTAF project brings this tool to local communities across Europe, with a focus on gender equality, migrant inclusion, European values and active citizenship. The Postojna edition is dedicated to migrant inclusion and to the experience of young people building a new life in Slovenia.
The Topics
During the event, a range of themes and stories related to migration and inclusion will be explored, including:
personal and family journeys of migration, and memories of the countries of origin;
learning the local language as the first step towards integration;
education pathways for young migrants and the transition from study to work;
sport and community life as spaces of belonging;
the role of local organisations in welcoming and supporting newcomers.
Moments of listening will alternate with informal spaces for meeting and conversation, designed to make every participant feel safe and welcome. A set of guiding questions will help readers approach the living books. Among them are young people attending educational programmes in Postojna, members of the organisations that support them and people with a personal or family history of migration, all sharing first-hand experiences, hopes and perspectives. The day will end with a shared lunch, an informal occasion to continue the conversation.
To protect the privacy of the young participants, photos will be limited and taken only in ways that do not make anyone identifiable.
The event is open to the public and participation is free of charge.