KA210- Integrating Cultures: Empowering Youth as Cultural Translators

Looking for partners/applicants for this project in KA210 Erasmus+ (Small-scale partnerships) for the October deadline.

In response to the pressing challenges faced by marginalised communities (displaced, migrant, minority groups), particularly youth, within their countries, the I-CONNECT project aims to create a transformative impact through social change and cultural integration. These challenges encompass social isolation, cultural differences, discrimination, and hostility. Research has highlighted that fostering social networks and promoting positive narratives are key to building resilience within marginalised communities (Anjum, Mudassar, and Hadar, 2023).

The core objectives of the project are multifaceted and interconnected. The project seeks to empower 30 marginalised youth, aged between 16 and 24, to become cultural ambassadors, equipped with the understanding, knowledge, and skills needed to bridge the gap between their communities and the larger local communities. These ambassadors will undergo comprehensive training and continuous support, enabling them to advocate effectively for themselves and for cultural diversity. The project envisions the formation of local partnerships with schools, CSOs/NGOs, and local municipalities, creating a sustainable environment for community building.

The youth will furthermore, organise cultural events to serve as platforms for cultural exchange, team building, and joint advocacy efforts. To raise awareness and promote cross-cultural understanding, six workshops will be conducted by the youth ambassadors, shedding light on the challenges faced by marginalised communities and fostering empathy and appreciation.

The I-CONNECT project is built on a youth-led approach, recognizing the unique capabilities, resilience, and creativity of vulnerable youth. By empowering these young individuals to take the lead in advocating for positive change, the project ensures their active participation and ownership in community building. Moreover, the project actively promotes cultural diversity and inclusion, challenging negative stereotypes and fostering positive narratives through the efforts of cultural ambassadors.

In conclusion, the I-CONNECT project holds the potential to create a lasting impact on marginalised youth and their communities. Through empowerment, cultural exchange, and advocacy, the project seeks to bridge the gap between communities, promote social resilience, and inspire positive change.