Kerry Jigsaw’s International Communities Project Report

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In 2019, Jigsaw Kerry implemented a film-making project with young people from the national

and international communities living in Tralee and Killarney over a seven month period. Kerry Children and Young People’s Services Committee (CYPSC) were delighted to fund this project. A group of 16 young people aged between 13 and 24 developed the story for, acted in and directed a short film called ‘Mousa’ which explores diverse themes including maturing into adulthood, having to choose between two people you love and racism. The film was showcased at the Kerry International Film Festival in October 2019 to a large audience of community members.

The project sought to create a safe space for young people living in the Direct Provision system and with refugee status where integration could be promoted and young people could improve their wellbeing and strengthen their life skills and skills in the creative arts.

In addition, the project was viewed as an opportunity for Jigsaw Kerry to strengthen its connection with international communities living in the region, particularly those currently living in the Direct Provision system & with refugee status, and to strengthen its understanding of their needs in terms of mental health support and wellbeing. Participatory Action Research (PAR) was conducted in partnership with two of the young people involved.

Both the process and results are detailed in the report. Click here to download.