The project “World of Equality” was a great chance for me to learn how to develop programmes for minority youth and improve my knowledge on the rights that they have and they can exercise. Through different non-formal games, workshops and debates, we have discussed how important it is to involve minorities in the social life of the countries, and also how to improve community and intergenerational relations as young people are viewed as positive contributors.
I had the chance to share my knowledge and learn a lot from young people coming from France, Bulgaria, Latvia, Romania, Germany, Spain and Italy. All of the participants contributed to the project aim in a special way, since everybody was open to share their knowledge and was able to discuss the topics our trainers gave us. The location which the project took place was great, which additionally contributed to the good implementation of the project.
The most important thing I have learned during this training week is that we are all responsible for the integration of minorities in our societies, and for their empowerment, because this can lead to collective action for positive change. By empowerment, I mean that we need to ensure that all minorities have the capacity and opportunity to equip themselves with the skills and knowledge necessary to make informed life choices. The participation of youth minorities is a barometer of the underlying health of our democracies and societies. It is imperative that the voice of the most vulnerable and marginalised young people is heard because their contribution, their perspective and their knowledge is invaluable and unique in the effort to forge a better society for tomorrow, and for everyone!