The Refugee Women’s Alliance (ReWA) Youth and Early Education Program hosted an end-of-year celebration at the Kraken Community Iceplex on Friday, June 20, 2025, bringing together families, staff, and community leaders to honor the achievements of their students.
The event was a joyful reflection of ReWA’s mission to support immigrant and refugee families through culturally responsive education and youth development. The celebration started off with a Lion Dance, followed by a series of multicultural dance performances put on by the students – highlighting the rich diversity of the communities ReWA serves.
Children from the youth program took to the ice with performances ranging from hockey drills to figure skating showcases, demonstrating both confidence and the skills they’ve gained through the program.
The celebration also featured remarks from key speakers who support ReWA’s work and understand the importance of investing in inclusive, equitable education. Speakers included State Senators Javier Valdez and Claire Wilson, Dwane Chappelle, Director of Seattle’s Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL), Judge Richard Jones from One Roof Foundation (ORF), and Rob Johnson, Senior Vice President of the Seattle Kraken.
While the evening concluded, families also enjoyed complimentary food and drinks and free open ice skating for all attendees. It was a memorable celebration full of culture, community, and highlighting the bright future of ReWA’s young learners.
