Organized by the Ipswich Romanian Community, Be My Secret Santa was a festive gift exchange event held on 20 December 2024, bringing warmth and generosity to children, families, and individuals in need. Participants donated wrapped gifts labeled “From your Secret Santa,” each worth up to £5, which were then distributed anonymously during the celebration. With bilingual instructions and inclusive spirit, the event fostered kindness, connection, and holiday joy across the community. 

The Ipswich Romanian Community, in collaboration with Ipswich Community Media and local partners, organized the second edition of Let’s Christmas Together—a festive charity event dedicated to families with children who have special needs. Held on 15 December 2024 at Westgate House, the celebration featured a joyful meeting with Santa, carols, poetry, creative workshops, and special guests. With free entry and warm donations, the event created magical moments of inclusion, kindness, and holiday cheer.

In partnership with Suffolk Libraries, the Ipswich Romanian Community hosted a festive afternoon of storytelling, carol singing, and letter writing to Santa—all in Romanian. Held on 14 December 2024 at Ipswich County Library, the event brought together children and families to celebrate the holiday season through language, creativity, and cultural warmth. Part of the “Citim Împreună” initiative, this joyful gathering marked the fourth edition of our Christmas reading tradition. 

The Ipswich Romanian Community proudly organized the third edition of its annual celebration for Romania’s National Day on 1 December 2024. Held in Ipswich, the event brought together Romanian families and friends for an evening of music, traditional food, talks, and cultural connection. With support from local partners and special guests, the celebration featured a Romanian buffet, raffle, and warm social atmosphere. Free entry and open hearts made this gathering a joyful tribute to unity and heritage.

To mark Romania’s National Day, the Ipswich Romanian Community partnered with Suffolk Libraries to host a festive art workshop for children and parents. Led by IRC CEO and artist Romeo Mustata, the session celebrated Romanian heritage through creative activities and traditional symbols. Held on 1 December 2024 at Ipswich County Library, the event offered a warm, hands-on experience that brought families together in honor of the Great Union Day. 

The Ipswich Romanian Community was invited to support and participate in an informative event focused on safe and comfortable living in Suffolk. Held on 13 December 2024 at The Hive, the session featured special guests Jennifer Lockington (Environmental Health Specialist) and Robert Read (Researcher, University of Suffolk), who addressed key topics such as tenant rights, energy support, and home efficiency. Romanian interpretation was provided throughout, ensuring inclusive access and meaningful dialogue for our community. 

The Ipswich Romanian Community, in collaboration with Suffolk Law Centre, organized an informative legal session on 22 November 2024, aimed at supporting recent migrants—especially those from Roma and Eastern European backgrounds. Held in Ipswich, the event provided free legal advice and guidance on key issues affecting individuals with English as an additional language. This initiative strengthened access to justice and empowered our community through knowledge and support. 

The Ipswich Romanian Community, in collaboration with our partners, organized two tailored English language sessions for Romanian speakers in Ipswich and surrounding areas. Held in October 2024, the workshops—“From Zero to Hero” and “From Medium to Conversational”—provided practical support for improving communication, integration, and confidence. Delivered in welcoming spaces at Ipswich County Library every Sunday and The Hive every Friday, these sessions strengthened community ties and empowered participants through language. 

The Ipswich Romanian Community, in partnership with Job Centre Plus, organized a series of free weekly development sessions from 8 November to 13 December 2024. Held at St Felix House, these Friday sessions focused on improving English skills, job searching, wellbeing, and community integration. The initiative supported participants in building confidence, reducing isolation, and accessing practical guidance in a welcoming environment. 

The Ipswich Romanian Community was invited to attend and contribute to the Ipswich Hate Crime Conference, organized by Ipswich Borough Council as part of National Hate Crime Awareness Week. Held at The Hold on 16 October 2024, the event brought together local organizations and voices to address the impact of hate crime and promote community-led solutions. Our presence supported the message of inclusion, solidarity, and cultural understanding within Ipswich. 

As part of the Ageing Well project by Healthwatch Suffolk, the Ipswich Romanian Community co-organized a free family art workshop focused on exploring the meaning of ageing and intergenerational connection. Led by IRC CEO and Romanian artist Romeo Mustata, the session invited children and adults to create together through charcoal art, reflecting on how Suffolk can become more age-friendly. Held at Westgate House, the event blended creativity, dialogue, and community spirit. 

The Ipswich Romanian Community was invited to take part in the NHS-led health initiative hosted by East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust. Held on 9 October 2024 outside Whitehouse Baptist Church, the event offered free health checks and information on screening services, cancer awareness, vaccinations, and more. Our presence helped connect Romanian residents with vital health resources and reinforced our commitment to community wellbeing. 

Organized for the first time by the Ipswich Romanian Community in collaboration with our sponsors and cultural partners, the Ipswich Romanian Film Festival brought three powerful Romanian films to the heart of the town. Hosted at Ipswich County Library, the event celebrated identity, heritage, and cinematic storytelling under the theme “Where I Belong.” With free entry and community support, the festival offered a unique cultural experience for both Romanian and local audiences. 

As part of the Menopause & Me programme by Suffolk Libraries, this event provided a safe and supportive space for women to learn, share experiences, and better understand the physical and emotional changes that come with menopause. Participants had the opportunity to access valuable information, practical advice, and community support to help them navigate this important stage of life with confidence and awareness. 

On 27th July 2024, Ipswich Romanian Community organized the second edition of its cultural outing titled “Let’s Discover Together”, a day trip to Felixstowe. Participants enjoyed a walking tour, optional visits to the local museum and fort, and time by the seaside. The activity promoted social connection, local exploration, and cultural exchange among Romanian families in Ipswich. 

On 25th May 2024, the Ipswich Romanian Community Ensemble proudly performed on stage at The Big Afternoon, held at the New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich. The event celebrated cultural diversity through music and dance, with free entry for all.

Our ensemble showcased Romanian traditional dance and costume, bringing vibrant energy and heritage to the stage. The performance was warmly received and highlighted the value of community-led cultural expression.

On 13th July 2024, the Ipswich Romanian Community Folk Ensemble proudly participated in the Global Rhythm Festival at Christchurch Park, Ipswich, performing on stage at 1:40 PM opposite the children’s playground. Volunteers from the community showcased traditional Romanian folk dance and costumes, bringing vibrant energy and cultural pride to the festival.

The event celebrated global diversity through music, dance, and community spirit—free and open to all.

On 19th July 2024, Suffolk Law Centre, in partnership with Ipswich and Suffolk Council for Racial Equality, hosted the Suffolk Access to Justice event at 27–29 Norwich Road, Ipswich. The initiative aimed to support recent migrants—especially Roma and Eastern European communities with English as an additional language—by offering free legal guidance and resources.

The Ipswich Romanian Community was invited to attend, reinforcing the event’s inclusive approach and commitment to accessible justice. Attendees had the opportunity to raise legal concerns and connect with support services in a welcoming environment.

On 9th June 2024, Romanian citizens in Ipswich had the opportunity to vote locally for the European Parliament elections, for the first time in the area. The voting took place at Ipswich County Library, starting from 7 am, and was organized by the Romanian Embassy in London and the Consulate General in Manchester, with support and facilitation from the Ipswich Romanian community.

Under the slogan “A step forward for our future”, the campaign encouraged civic participation with the message: “Don’t let anyone vote for YOU.” The event marked an important milestone in strengthening democratic engagement among Romanians living in the UK.

On 1st June 2024, Ipswich Romanian Community hosted the second edition of “Let’s Picnic Together” in Christchurch Park, Ipswich. The event celebrated Romanian Children’s Day with free family activities like board games, bubble machines, police uniforms, and bilingual storytelling in Romanian and English. Families brought their own snacks and enjoyed a joyful, relaxed picnic atmosphere.

The Ipswich Romanian Community was invited to take part in the “Safety on the Streets and in Our Homes” event, organized by the Nacton Residents Group. Held on 24 May 2024, the evening focused on raising awareness around county lines, gangs, and family safety. Our presence contributed to the community dialogue, offering support and visibility for Romanian residents in Ipswich. The event featured spoken word, music, free services, and Caribbean food, creating a space for real conversations and shared solutions. 

On May 19, 2024, the Ipswich Romanian Community, in collaboration with Suffolk Libraries, hosted a cultural event at Ipswich County Library to officially launch the first collection of Romanian-language books available to the public. The afternoon featured a bilingual guided tour of the library (in Romanian and English), followed by a presentation of the newly added Romanian titles.

This initiative marked a meaningful step in promoting Romanian heritage and supporting multilingual access to literature within the local community. It was a proud moment of connection, inclusion, and cultural celebration.

We took part in the Health and Wellbeing Day 2024, an annual event organized by Ipswich Community Media (ICM).

Held on Wednesday, 22 May 2024, at Burlington Church Hall in Ipswich, the event brought together over 20 organisations from the health and wellbeing sector, including Healthwatch Suffolk, Lighthouse, Feel Good Suffolk, and the GP Federation.

Visitors could access valuable information, enjoy fundraising activities such as a plant sale and a henna stall, and connect with services supporting a healthier lifestyle. 

We organized the Open Day at Ipswich Central Library in collaboration with our partners.

The event took place on Saturday, 16 March 2024, at Ipswich County Library and offered visitors the chance to enjoy a guided tour of the library, create a free membership, and learn about exciting new projects.

It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with the community and promote access to local resources and initiatives.

We participated in the Ipswich Jobs & Careers Fair, an event organized by the Department for Work and Pensions in partnership with Ipswich Borough Council.

The fair took place on Wednesday, 13 March, at Town Hall & Corn Exchange from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., offering opportunities to meet local employers, discover current job vacancies, learn about different sectors, and explore training options.

It was a great occasion for networking and gaining insight into the local job market. 

In February 2024, we proudly organised the “Be My Secret Valentine” initiative — a heartwarming community event created to bring joy, kindness, and surprise to participants.

Based on the idea of anonymously exchanging thoughtful gifts, the event encouraged a spirit of generosity and connection within the community in the lead-up to Valentine’s Day.

This beautiful initiative, led by the Ipswich Romanian Community, brought people together through small acts of care and shared celebration.

We are proud to announce that Ipswich Romanian Community, in partnership with Ipswich County Library, has been selected as one of the 55 participants across Europe in the Europe Challenge 2024!
This year’s theme – Libraries, Communities and Democracy – brings together innovative projects that empower local communities through learning, creativity, and civic engagement.

Stay tuned as we begin this exciting journey, supported by the European Cultural Foundation and Arts Council England. More details about our project will be shared soon on our website and social media channels!