CommUnities First is a CommUnities-led initiative within CUSBU focused on building inclusion and empowering young Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPoC) with and without refugee backgrounds. The project centers on three key pillars:

1. Community Empowerment: Supporting refugees in advocacy and their projects within their own communities, while amplifying the voices of young leaders from diverse backgrounds.

2. Media and Storytelling: Creating spaces for participants to share their experiences, challenge stereotypes, and build empathy in the broader society.

3. Arts and Culture: Organizing cultural events, art exhibitions, and performances to showcase the talents and contributions of refugees, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.

Project Goals: The project aims to enhance the coordination, professionalization, sustainability, and ongoing support for BIPoC refugees, particularly from Ukraine, while expanding focus to connect and collaborate with other marginalized communities. Through various activities, the project seeks to address and reduce gaps in support for women*, youth*, and men* of color, while tackling systemic issues. This includes creating safe spaces, empowering the target group, collaborating with political and governmental actors, and engaging in advocacy to improve the situation for this highly vulnerable group.