More than 150 members of the community joined together earlier this month to enjoy a football themed gathering designed to promote and encourage local culture and diversity.

Organised by BEMIS, an organisation which aims to empower the diverse ethnic and cultural minority third sector, and the Central Scotland Regional Equality Council (CSREC), the event took place in Falkirk Stadium’s Fan Zone, with supported from Falkirk Football Club and Falkirk Foundation.

Funded by Big Lottery Community Fund, the family friendly event transformed the Fan Zone into a welcoming space where people of all ages and backgrounds could connect, play, and celebrate the diversity of the Forth Valley through a shared love of the beautiful game.

Activities included football skills sessions, children’s five aside games and live music.

The World Cup Village event was a great success (Picture: Submitted)

placeholder image — The World Cup Village event was a great success (Picture: Submitted)

The World Cup Village helped to promote community cohesion, break down barriers, and highlight the vital role diversity plays in strengthening teams and

communities.

Local police officers were in attendance and didn’t shy away from getting involved, supporting conversations, and increasing visibility — further breaking down

barriers and showing their commitment to the diverse communities that make up Central Scotland.

CSREC's World Cup Village event was well attended and enjoyed by all (Picture: Submitted)

Charlotte Thomas, human rights and race equality officer at BEMIS, said: “It was inspiring to see more than 150 people from across the community come

together for this event. Football has a unique ability to bring people together across cultures, backgrounds and generations, helping to break down barriers and create

meaningful connections.

"One of the highlights of the day was hearing from people who told us they had made new friends and connections through the event. That’s the real value of holding events like this – creating opportunities for people from different backgrounds to come together, build relationships, and feel part of a shared community.”

CSREC CEO Eman Hani added: “At CSREC, we believe in creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued. Seeing over 150 people come together in such

a positive way shows what community cohesion looks like in practice.

"This is work we continue to support across Central Scotland.”

The importance of the event was not lost on Falkirk FC events manager Jack Traynor.

He said: “It’s been brilliant to see the Falkirk Fanzone evolve into a venue that can support events like this – creating memorable experiences while giving back to the

community.”