Within the framework of Work Package 5 (WP5) of the MILAGRO project (MIgrants and
Local communities Actively GROwing together for inclusive societies), the Nuova Associazione
Culturale Ulisse (NACU) hosted a five-day Summer Camp in Siena, from 7 to 11 July 2025. The
goal was simple yet ambitious: to create opportunities for locals and migrants to meet, share
experiences, and discover one another through culture, dialogue, and play.
From the very first day, the atmosphere was warm and joyful. Every evening brought
together people of different ages, languages, and backgrounds, filling the spaces of Siena with
laughter, curiosity, and genuine human connection.
The week began with “Language Challenges”, where Pakistani and Italian volunteers
guided participants through Pashto, Urdu, and other languages. Special emphasis was placed
on Pashto, as it is the primary language of most migrants participating in the MILAGRO project.
What started as a learning exercise soon became a source of amusement: people were thrilled
to copy the Pashto alphabet and burst out laughing as they proudly compared their attempts at
writing their own names in this new script. It was the perfect icebreaker.
On Tuesday, the focus shifted to storytelling. In the cozy setting of a local restaurant,
participants shared pieces of their lives over food and drinks. The atmosphere was relaxed and
convivial, and stories flowed naturally—sometimes moving, sometimes funny, always authentic.
It was a moment of discovery and connection that brought everyone closer together.
By Wednesday, the Summer Camp reached one of its peaks with dance and music.
Traditional Pakistani and Afghan rhythms filled the air, and the Attan—a circle dance
symbolizing unity and resilience—drew everyone in. The melodies of the rabab, a traditional
string instrument, added a unique and evocative sound that enchanted the audience and made
the experience even more immersive. With chae and sweet snacks at hand, the evening turned
into a celebration of energy and joy. The smiles, clapping, and improvised steps made it one of
the most unforgettable moments of the entire week.
Thursday was dedicated to cooking together, but in a very informal way. The gathering
took place in a city park, creating a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Everyone brought along
something they wanted others to taste—dishes, snacks, or homemade
specialties—transforming the evening into a colorful picnic of cultures. People exchanged
recipes, stories, and memories linked to the food they had prepared, and the park quickly filled
with aromas, laughter, and curiosity. It was a moment of genuine sharing, where culinary
traditions blended naturally and food once again proved to be one of the simplest and most
powerful bridges between cultures.
The final day closed the camp with sports and laughter. At the Siena Baseball field in
Castellina Scalo, locals discovered cricket, a sport completely new to many of them but well-
loved by the migrant participants. Mixed teams played short matches, cheered on by the crowd,
with migrants learning rules and techniques with enthusiasm. The day ended with a barbecue
offered by NACU, and the joy of playing together lingered well into the evening. Cricket, like
dance, turned out to be a perfect symbol of inclusion—bringing people together in fair play and
friendship.
When the Summer Camp came to an end, the feeling was unanimous: it had been a
week full of discovery, warmth, and unforgettable encounters. Above all, the dance evening and
cricket day stood out as moments of pure energy, where cultural differences disappeared and a
shared rhythm—or a shared game—brought everyone together. Participants left with new
friends, new skills, and the desire to repeat the experience in the future.
