An Amnesty International employee was in Wagga recently and praised the city for how it welcomes refugees and encourages them to interact with the community.

For decades, Wagga has welcomed the cultures, practices and food from different countries from across the world through events and programs that are held in the city.

Fusion festival, a celebration of food, dance and music from other countries, is one of the city's biggest events and attracts thousands of people each year.

The Victory Memorial Gardens fills with smells and sounds from around the world and it provides a glimpse into the multicultural communities that make up this city.

Wagga was praised recently for backing an initiative that supports refugees, which has now been supported by 30 other councils.

Diversity is what makes a community grow and thrive and Wagga has it in spades.

The Amnesty International employee said more conversations between residents and refugees is what is needed to make the transition smoother.

Because it is not just the refugees who are set to benefit, but the residents too.

As we sip our lattes and eat our avocado on toast, it can be humbling to hear of the struggles and hardships that others have gone through, escaping war and hunger to build a better life for their families.

They have chosen this city for their new life and there are ways residents can make that transition an easy one.

These conversations and smooth transitions are what fosters inclusion and respect, both essential for a community to thrive, no matter that the cultural background is.

Inclusion and acceptance is how a community fights racism and hatred.

It is how we can help solve a global problem on a local level.

Wagga has so many opportunities available to residents.

It is a great place for people to thrive, to build a business or get an education, regardless of age or cultural background.