— The path ahead is challenging. More adventures, more work – more mountains to climb! Be part of the adventure.

UNHCR commissions a mural entitled “HOME” in Dun Laoghaire, designed and executed by Ascend’s own Neda, working with Holly

—All focus on further education and careers. Several enrol in degree, diploma or university access courses in Dublin, Galway and Limerick.

Many of the group and local supporters run the Dublin Women’s’ Mini Marathon. One member cycled from Galway to Dublin. The fundraisers send food aid to Afghanistan.

—Two short feature films produced and shot by Ascend women in Ireland, working with IADT Film School, are selected and shown at the Galway Film Fleadh

—Four move to a house in Booterstown donated by Medical Missionaries of Mary. Others move to house shares, rentals, Red Cross accommodation and home hosting. Studies and part-time work continue.

—Nine enrol in 3rd level colleges, the younger girls return to secondary school.
—Many take part in Culture Night at Comhlámh Dublin.
—After only one year in Ireland, the group have achieved wonderful progress.

—Transition to independent living begins. After a “Farewell to Wicklow” party, the arrivals move to host families or rented houses around Leinster and Galway. Many start part-time jobs.
—Options are explored for careers and third-level courses.

—Milltown mosque welcomes the group. Ten of the group parade with Wicklow Lions Club. Beautiful hand-made cards are sold at Dun Laoghaire Christmas fair . Festivals of Yalda (Afghan solstice festival) and Christmas are celebrated.
—Many attend English Language Schools. Volunteer counsellors and therapists help the arrivals plan their future.
—A tee-shirt design by one of the group wins a competition

The youngest four girls attend secondary schools. Volunteers help with English conversation. In Galway, the arrivals start work in hospitality and shops

Friends of Ascend help the arrivals with initial registrations and paperwork. Donations of clothing, laptops, bicycles and essentials are gratefully received. Activities begin, including hill walking, running, swimming and gym

Friends of Ascend welcomes 20 young Afghan refugees to Ireland. Half the group are hosted in at An Tairseach ecological retreat centre in Wicklow by the Dominican Sisters. Another 10 are home-hosted in Galway.