20 Feb 2026, 14:12Pr Ratko Risteski, edited by SM CommunicationsHamilton, South Lanarkshire, Scotland, United Kingdom
Scottish Mission Pastor Invited to Lead Anti-Racism Presentation at Local School
Inspiring young minds and staff alike, Pastor Ratko Risteski addressed a Hamilton primary school on anti-racism, celebrating diversity and community values.
Following the establishment of a meaningful connection with a local primary school in Hamilton, Pastor Ratko Risteski of the Paisley, Faifley, and Irvine district was invited by the Head Teacher to deliver an anti-racism presentation to the entire school community on 20 February, comprising approximately 140 pupils and all staff members. The invitation carried special significance as Pastor Risteski’s daughter is a pupil at the school, further strengthening the personal and relational connection.
The presentation focused on helping children understand the importance of kindness, respect, and inclusion. Through age-appropriate examples and interactive discussion, pupils were encouraged to accept and celebrate different skin colours, appreciate diverse cultures and languages, support classmates facing language barriers, and stand up for one another with courage and compassion.
A particularly inspiring moment of the event was when the children were invited to share and celebrate their cultural backgrounds. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and engagement created an atmosphere of openness and joy throughout the session.
Feedback from the Head Teacher and staff was overwhelmingly positive. Teachers expressed their appreciation for the clarity, warmth, and practical guidance shared with the pupils. Building on this success, further collaboration has already been discussed, including future presentations on bullying prevention, creative workshops, and initiatives to foster a culture of respect and support within the school.
The event demonstrated how meaningful engagement between the church and local institutions can inspire positive change and foster values of respect, compassion, and inclusion among young people.
Reflecting on the visit, Pastor Risteski said, "By engaging with schools and community organisations, the church demonstrates that it is not separate from society but actively invested in its wellbeing. Such collaborations enable us to positively shape the next generation, nurturing values of dignity, compassion, and unity." He added, "We look forward to continued collaboration in Hamilton and beyond, praying that these connections will open further opportunities to serve our communities with wisdom and love."
Inspiring young minds and staff alike, Pastor Ratko Risteski addressed a Hamilton primary school on anti-racism, celebrating diversity and community values.
Following the establishment of a meaningful connection with a local primary school in Hamilton, Pastor Ratko Risteski of the Paisley, Faifley, and Irvine district was invited by the Head Teacher to deliver an anti-racism presentation to the entire school community on 20 February, comprising approximately 140 pupils and all staff members. The invitation carried special significance as Pastor Risteski’s daughter is a pupil at the school, further strengthening the personal and relational connection.
The presentation focused on helping children understand the importance of kindness, respect, and inclusion. Through age-appropriate examples and interactive discussion, pupils were encouraged to accept and celebrate different skin colours, appreciate diverse cultures and languages, support classmates facing language barriers, and stand up for one another with courage and compassion.
A particularly inspiring moment of the event was when the children were invited to share and celebrate their cultural backgrounds. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and engagement created an atmosphere of openness and joy throughout the session.
Feedback from the Head Teacher and staff was overwhelmingly positive. Teachers expressed their appreciation for the clarity, warmth, and practical guidance shared with the pupils. Building on this success, further collaboration has already been discussed, including future presentations on bullying prevention, creative workshops, and initiatives to foster a culture of respect and support within the school.
The event demonstrated how meaningful engagement between the church and local institutions can inspire positive change and foster values of respect, compassion, and inclusion among young people.
Reflecting on the visit, Pastor Risteski said, "By engaging with schools and community organisations, the church demonstrates that it is not separate from society but actively invested in its wellbeing. Such collaborations enable us to positively shape the next generation, nurturing values of dignity, compassion, and unity." He added, "We look forward to continued collaboration in Hamilton and beyond, praying that these connections will open further opportunities to serve our communities with wisdom and love."
