Glasgow, Scotland – Navigating Sanctuary Life has announced that its Founder and Trustee, Ivan
Kakembo, met with Dr Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, at the Hilton Glasgow to discuss the role of sport in strengthening communities, promoting good governance, and supporting social inclusion across
Glasgow.
The meeting provided an opportunity to exchange views on the contribution that sport can make beyond competition, particularly in addressing social challenges faced by asylum seekers, refugees, and other marginalised communities. Discussions also explored the importance of effective sports governance and the growing role
that third sector organisations play in creating healthier, more connected communities.During the meeting, Mr Kakembo formally invited Dr Rukare to attendNavigating Sanctuary Life's community event on Wednesday, 29 July, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, at Ashgill Recreation Centre, Milton, Glasgow.
The eventwill mark two significant milestones for the charity. It will celebrate the ongoing delivery of the Dignity in Food Provision project, supported by the Glasgow Wellbeing Fund, administered by the Glasgow
Council for the Voluntary Sector (GCVS), together with funding from the Corra Foundation Boost Fund. It will also officially launch the charity's new Togetherness Builds Wellbeing project, made possible through funding from The National Lottery Community Fund.The launch will bring together community members, partners, funders, volunteers, and stakeholders to celebrate collaborative efforts that are improving wellbeing, reducing social isolation, and helping New Scots build stronger connections within their local communities.
The Dignity in Food Provision project provides culturally appropriate meals and emergency food support while creating welcoming spaces where participants can develop friendships, access trusted services, and improve their mental wellbeing. The newly funded Togetherness Builds Wellbeing project expands this work by tackling loneliness and isolation through community activities, learning opportunities, cultural experiences, and practical support
designed to strengthen social inclusion and community cohesion.Speaking after the meeting, Ivan Kakembo, Founder and Trustee of Navigating Sanctuary Life, said:
"It was a privilege to meet Dr Donald Rukare and discuss how sport and the voluntary sector can work together to create stronger, healthier, and more inclusive communities. Sport has an extraordinary ability to unite people
across different cultures and backgrounds, while charities provide the trusted local support that enables community members to thrive. By bringing these sectors together, we can create lasting opportunities that restore dignity, improve wellbeing, and ensure everyone feels they belong. Glasgow continues to demonstrate the power of partnership, and we are proud to play our part in that shared vision."Mr Kakembo also expressed his sincere appreciation to the organisations whose investment has enabled Navigating Sanctuary Life to expand its services at a time of increasing demand.
"We are deeply grateful to the Glasgow Wellbeing Fund administered by GCVS, the CorraFoundation,SAMH,CEMVO Scotland,Celtic Foundation and The National Lottery Community Fund for believing in our vision and investing in the people and communities we serve. Their support is enabling us to respond to urgent community needs while creating long-term opportunities for inclusion, friendship, dignity, and wellbeing. We also thank all our partners, volunteers, and community members whose commitment makes this work possible."
The charity hopes the event will further strengthen collaboration between the sporting sector, public bodies, community organisations, and local residents, demonstrating how partnerships can create meaningful social impact across Sanctuary Life remains committed to supporting asylum seekers, refugees, and ethnic minority communities by delivering practical assistance alongside opportunities that promote confidence, belonging, and active participation in Scottish society.