Throughout 2023 and 2024, Acciones de Familias Nuevas from Spain engaged educators, tutors, and young participants in transformative training sessions and virtual exchanges across continents. These initiatives emphasized the six interconnected dimensions of human development—physical, emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, and historical (family/environment)—while fostering intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding. Here are the key milestones of this journey. 

Training the trainers 

A virtual exchange and training session for future tutor couples of the Up2Me program was held on June 24 and 25, 2023. The event gathered 64 participants, including European and African specialists, for an enriching weekend of learning and interaction. Conducted in French and Italian with simultaneous translation, the session aimed to prepare educators to deliver the Up2Me program to children and adolescents in diverse cultural contexts. 

The training emphasized the importance of intercultural exchange, with participants sharing insights from their respective regions. One participant remarked: “The content was rich and vital for our youth. The program equips us with practical tools for working with adolescents and inspires me to reach more children at all levels.” 

Connecting cultures for the first time 

Young participants from Europe and Africa met virtually for the first time on February 18, 2024. Over 40 young people and their tutors came together to share experiences and reflections. 

The discussions revealed the universal impact of the Up2Me program, transcending cultural and social differences. Despite the wide diversity in age, culture, and social background, the experience shared by participants highlighted many common points. One young participant reflected, “This experience helped me understand myself better and connect with others in a meaningful way.” 

Listening to the youth: strengthening relationships 

A second virtual exchange on October 19, 2024, allowed for deeper connections among participants. This meeting brought together 48 participants from partner countries and 11 guests from other African nations. The diverse group included children under 18, young adults, and their trainers, totaling 59 individuals. The event was conducted in five languages—English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian—to accommodate various linguistic backgrounds. 

Participants were encouraged to reflect on their experiences through guiding questions, such as identifying impactful songs or phrases from the Up2Me course and sharing how the program has influenced their lives. The insights gathered highlighted the program’s relevance and participants’ enthusiasm to recommend it to their peers. 

Our commitment to building bridges between Europe and Africa through education and dialogue continues—explore the milestones of the AFR.E.S.H. program here. 

L'articolo Up2Me expands formation across continents with AFR.E.S.H program proviene da New Humanity.

The training program emphasized the theme “Togetherness: Building Teams and Leaders for a New Africa”, designed to reinforce leadership attitudes and civic participation through a blend of local training activities and international exchange. Lecturers, facilitators, and participants from European countries expanded the participants’ perspectives from both continents on common challenges and diverse cultural viewpoints regarding the topics discussed. 

Enhancing Peer-to-Peer Learning 

In response to participant feedback from the Summer School in 2023, the 2024 program focused on increasing opportunities for exchange among participants. The structure included fewer lectures and more collaborative sessions, allowing attendees to share their insights and best practices on leadership. Discussions were facilitated in English, French, and Portuguese, accommodating the diverse linguistic backgrounds of participants. 

A notable new feature was the peer-to-peer moments, where participants from different countries, but sharing a common language, engaged in meaningful conversations about their reflections and proposals based on the lectures. Feedback indicated that these moments were highly appreciated and contributed significantly to the learning experience. 

Opening Session and Key Themes 

The event began with a powerful address from Prof. Justus Mbae, former Vice Chancellor of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa and Chairperson of T4NA. He emphasized the crucial role of individual passion, energy, and curiosity in driving meaningful change. Prof. Mbae’s message resonated with participants, motivating them to embrace their potential as agents of transformation. 

Dr. Melchior Nsavyimana, the project manager of T4NA, expressed his gratitude for the commitment shown by all involved in making the training a reality. His acknowledgment of the collaborative efforts among participants from various regions underscored the essence of teamwork in achieving common goals. 

The first day featured a reflective session led by Professor Declan O’Byrne, Rector of Sophia Institute University, who engaged participants in discussing the challenges and opportunities of leadership in today’s world. This segment proved impactful, as participants reflected on their own leadership journeys and the wisdom required to navigate complex environments. 

Throughout the week, various crucial themes were explored, including: 

1. Collaboration and Complex Issues: A session on “Hard Problems & Contextual Factors,” moderated by Annette Pelkmans, Professor of International Economics at Sophia University Institute, highlighted the importance of collective action in solving complex challenges. The introduction of the “6 by 1 methodology” provided a structured framework for participants to navigate these difficulties, encouraging them to reflect on the challenges of fraternity, love, and globalization. 
2. Conflict Management: Raphaël Takougang, a lawyer at the Cameroon Bar Association, led discussions on conflict transformation and peacebuilding, reinforcing the idea that everyone plays a role in fostering peace through daily actions and commitments. 
3. Gender Inequality: Geneviève Sanze highlighted the vital role of women in socio-economic development, stressing the importance of recognizing unpaid labor and advocating for balanced partnerships between men and women. Her insights on mutual societies and initiatives focused on women’s development underscored the potential for creating more equitable communities.

In addition to thematic discussions, time was allocated for national group exchanges, allowing participants to delve deeper into the content and develop action plans tailored to their local contexts. These collaborative sessions fostered a sense of community and mutual support, essential elements for effective leadership. 

A Collaborative Closure 

As the training concluded, Melchior Nsavyimana, Project Manager of Together for a New Africa, encouraged participants to become active citizens and implement the lessons learned in their communities. The event wrapped up by reaffirming the significance of collaborative leadership in building a stronger, more equitable, and united Africa. 

The T4NA Summer School 2024 not only equipped young leaders with essential skills and knowledge but also created a vibrant network of individuals committed to driving positive change. As they return to their communities, these leaders carry with them a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to fostering unity and collaboration across the continent. 

To access all the materials and lectures from the Summer School, visit AFR.E.S.H. Project. 

For more information on the Together for a New Africa project, visit the website. 

L'articolo Togetherness in Action: Strengthening Leadership at the T4NA Summer School proviene da New Humanity.

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Sign Up Now! Register here. 

Starting in September 2024, the Online Training Course: “Project Design and Strategic Planning” invites youth and professionals to participate in an enriching experience aimed at promoting social inclusion in the Mediterranean region and fostering exchanges between Africa and Europe. This innovative initiative, powered by the M.E.D.I.T.erraNEW and AFR.E.S.H projects, seeks to equip participants with essential skills to design impactful and sustainable social projects.

ACCESS THE CALENDAR

Who Can Join?

While the primary participants include staff and volunteers from partner organizations, the training is open to a wider audience, including:

• Staff from the International Focolare Movement Center (MdF)
• Regional project development offices
• Youth centers and dialogue coordinators
• Educators, young professionals, and staff from other social organizations interested in enhancing their skills.

Training Goals

• Learn how to enhance the sustainability of their organizations and improve youth inclusion.
• Develop a strategic mindset for project design.
• Strengthen their ability to prepare high-quality project proposals.
• Gain skills to act as multipliers, sharing knowledge within their networks.
• Identify additional training needs for future learning opportunities.
• Build capacity for effective networking and collaboration.

Course Structure

• Phase 1 (2 sessions): An introduction to strategic planning and project design, exploring the general concepts and their interconnection.
• Phase 2 (4 sessions): A deep dive into project evaluation, impact assessment, and advocacy, focusing on how to influence local and international institutions.
• Phase 3 (5 sessions): Detailed analysis of individual project phases, providing hands-on learning opportunities.

Language and Accessibility

While the training will primarily be conducted in Italian, modules will be available in English, French, Spanish, Croatian, Portuguese and Arabic. 

Course Logistics

• Schedule: The first two phases will take place in the evenings from 7:15 PM to 9:15 PM (CET), while the third phase will be held in the afternoons from 1:45 PM to 3:45 PM (CET).
• Platform: Sessions will be conducted via Zoom, with materials and recordings available on a shared Drive.

Costs and Registration

The training is free for staff and volunteers from partner organizations in the M.E.D.I.T.erraNEW and AFR.E.S.H projects. It is also free for participants from non-EU countries. For other European participants not affiliated with partner organizations, there is a nominal fee of €15. Registration and payment details will be provided upon sign-up.

Certification

Participants who attend at least 80% of the sessions will receive a certificate of participation from New Humanity. Additionally, participants under 30 years old will receive a Youthpass certificate, validated by the European Union.

Sign Up Now! Register here. 

Join us in shaping a brighter future for youth across the Mediterranean through the Online Training Course: “Project Design and Strategic Planning”!

L'articolo Introducing the Online Training Course: “Project Design and Strategic Planning” proviene da New Humanity.

The meetings covered three main themes: Dice of Peace; Art and Sport as Privileged Instruments for Building Peace; and Building a Bridge Between Generations and Cultures. The sessions led by Living Peace International, a project focused on peace education from the NGO AMU – Azione per un Mondo Unito, featured effective and creative learning experiences and pedagogical practices.

The first meeting on April 15, 2023, introduced participants to the Dice of Peace and included discussions on personal experiences with the initiative. The following sessions on April 22 and May 13 explored using art and sport for peacebuilding and bridging generational and cultural gaps. The second session involved interactive activities, videos, and discussions on how art and sport promote peace. The final meeting focused on building connections across generations and cultures, featuring breakout room discussions and shared experiences from various countries. Each session concluded with positive feedback, leaving participants with a renewed sense of purpose and connection. 

The diverse participation from various countries in Africa and Europe raised awareness about the importance of peace education and highlighted the global reach and inclusivity of the initiative. This exchange also demonstrated the potential for continental collaboration, inspiring similar efforts and encouraging other organizations to adopt a more global and inclusive approach. AFR.E.S.H Online Exchanges, co-funded by the European Union, successfully bridged geographical and cultural divides, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and experiences among educators dedicated to promoting peace through education. 

L'articolo AFR.E.S.H promotes global peace education through creative learning experiences proviene da New Humanity.

The project – co-financed by the European Commission – aims at cooperation between the two continents to address global challenges such as migration flows, climate change, inequalities, and conflicts. But in a new dimension – horizontal, equal – between Europe and Africa. It takes place through a series of virtual exchanges and through training initiatives for young Africans and Europeans, involving the different dimensions of personal development: emotional, relational, civic, political, and entrepreneurial skills.

FIRST MEETING OF 2024: A GRAND START!

On May 11th, the first – online – meeting of 2024 took place, full of activities and speeches. Delegates from Italy, Spain, Ivory Coast, Uganda, Belgium, and Kenya participated. Representatives from Slovenia and Luxembourg were also invited. Joseph handled the technical aspects, while Elisa and Simon Peter guided the event as speakers.

After an introduction to illustrate both the project itself and Living Peace International (LP is one of the peace education training programs within AFR.E.S.H), three experiences were shared on the use of the Peace Dice in Spain, Kenya, and Uganda. There was also a “time-out” moment (a minute of silence, prayer, or reflection on peace). Following this, participants were involved in discussions in both separate rooms and in plenary session. The day concluded with a sharing session involving all attendees.

SECOND MEETING OF 2024: ART AND SPORT AS TOOLS FOR PEACE

The second AFR.E.S.H. meeting took place on May 25th. The chosen theme was “art and sport as privileged tools for building peace between the two continents.” A total of 63 representatives from various European and African countries participated.

Carlos, the founder of Living Peace International, shared with everyone how art can truly be a tool for peace. An art teacher from Uganda then shared what he had learned in his ten years of experience. Participants were then divided into groups for a moment of discussion and reflection on the theme at the heart of the debate. Each shared their own – unique – story.

THIRD MEETING OF 2024: BUILDING BRIDGES BETWEEN GENERATIONS, RELIGIONS, AND CULTURES

The third meeting of 2024 – on June 8th – focused on “building bridges between generations, religions, and cultures.” Representatives from Italy, Ivory Coast, Uganda, Spain, and Belgium participated, as well as delegates from Burundi, Benin, Guinea Bissau, and Guinea Conakry. In total, 60 people.

Experts from Africa and Europe shared their experiences. Participants were divided into different groups to delve deeper into discussions, then all came together for a moment of common reflection.

This 2024 cycle of meetings for the AFR.E.S.H project demonstrated the practical importance of intercultural cooperation and training for peacebuilding, and equally important, the exchange and sharing of personal experiences.

L'articolo Three Stages of AFR.E.S.H: The Path Towards Peace and Global Development proviene da New Humanity.

Answering cross-continental challenges and aiming to prepare for this potent collaboration, AFR.E.S.H project offers training designed to provide practical, hands-on experience. Through international online exchanges, participants can share best practices, gain intercultural perspectives, and consider local implications of global challenges. The courses are flexible and accessible online, allowing you to learn at your own pace and convenience. 

Training Programs Offered by AFR.E.S.H 

 Media Literacy Training for Youth Workers 

Are you a youth worker looking to facilitate more engaging and interactive online meetings and workshops? This training program equips you with the tools and best practices to make digital spaces more dynamic and participatory. Under the guidance of facilitator Rainer Gude, you’ll have the chance to practice new tools and techniques in a supportive environment. 

 Social Impact Evaluation Workshop 

If you’re part of an NGO or association looking to enhance your program evaluation skills, this workshop is for you. Facilitated by Giuseppe Pellegrini, this interactive course teaches you how to develop effective evaluation strategies for your programs. You’ll learn to design and implement monitoring systems and analyze results to improve your organization’s impact. 

The AFR.E.S.H project is more than just a series of training programs; it’s a movement to empower young leaders and foster transnational cooperation. By participating in these programs, you can gain the skills needed to navigate and address the complex challenges facing our world. Join us in redefining the horizon between Africa and Europe—together, we can build a better future. 

L'articolo Building Skills for a Better Future: access AFR.E.S.H training materials proviene da New Humanity.

AFR.E.S.H. representatives played a pivotal role in the event, contributing to inspiring experiences and insights. Check the videos below:

Learn more: https://www.new-humanity.org/en/project/afr-e-s-h/

L'articolo AFR.E.S.H. participants are protagonists of global event to foster peace and unity proviene da New Humanity.

L'articolo Summer school cultivates leadership across Africa and Europe proviene da New Humanity.

WHEN: 9-11 AM (Lagos, London) 10-12 AM (Rome, Bujumbura) 11-1 AM (Nairobi) June 17th

Register here by June 15th:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf6iqnby9zsyr3TN15AJNzHryXDEwnW3BNKThkMGIIeH3SuUg/viewform?usp=sf_link

To download PDF invitation, click here.

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