Over the last few weeks, Sparks has been on a joyful journey of celebration, curiosity and connection. The aim was to find a meaningful way to highlight the many nationalities, cultures and traditions that shape our community and the wider world. This vision sparked a simple but powerful idea that would greet everyone the moment they walked through our doors. We chose to celebrate the world through flags.

These flags offer much more than a colourful display. Each one invites visitors to pause, look closer and discover something new. Volunteers from across Sparks, including our SEN work experience students, Community Threads and the Changes mental health group, selected flags from around the globe and explored fun facts to share on the reverse. Their contributions have created a growing collection of stories that encourage learning and spark conversation.

The first wave of bunting flags now hangs proudly throughout Sparks, transforming the space into a reflection of the diversity found in Bristol and throughout the world. Walking among the displays feels like taking a gentle journey across continents, histories and identities, all within a few steps.

This initiative encourages everyone to step outside familiar surroundings and explore new perspectives. Each flag represents people with rich experiences and unique contributions to global culture. Opening ourselves to these stories helps us grow in understanding, compassion and confidence. Every fact has the potential to inspire curiosity and strengthen a sense of connection within our community.

The timing could not be better. With the annual Global Gifts Fest taking place this Saturday 6 December, excitement is building across Sparks. Global Gifts Fest celebrates unity, shared learning and the beauty of diversity, perfectly reflecting the purpose behind our flag project. The display offers the ideal starting point for anyone wishing to explore the many intersections of identity that make our community so vibrant.

We would love you to join in. Visit Sparks, wander among the bunting, read the stories and enjoy the artwork created by our volunteers. Allow yourself to be inspired by the cultures represented and the people who bring them to life in our city.

Do not forget our Sparks challenge. Many more flags are waiting to be added. Think about which ones are missing. Consider which cultures or traditions you would like to champion. Your choice might introduce someone to a part of the world they have never explored before.

Anira Khokhar, Volunteering Lead, Sparks Bristol