Updating communities

Background The partner organizations focused on the integration of young migrants into communities that often excluded them. The project had two clear objectives: Promote social inclusion, civic coexistence, and the participation of young immigrants in various aspects of local life, such as social, political, economic, and cultural spheres. Work on preventing discriminatory, racist, and xenophobic behaviors, especially among the local youth population, by normalizing the presence of migrant identities in community life. To achieve these goals, a comprehensive analysis of the interests and needs of young migrants was carried out, and a training plan in social skills, communication, cultural context, and initiative was implemented. Active participation of young people in community activities on equal terms was encouraged, and efforts were made to improve their social perception by getting closer to their realities. The project involved more than 500 young people of various ages and backgrounds, with the participation of around 40 young migrants as the core group. Objectives When presenting the project, we primarily expected two things to happen: That young immigrants would increase their presence and participation in community activities (of any type: sports, cultural, political, etc., based on their interests and needs). For this, they needed a training process to empower them for equal and quality participation. That the community would normalize and include the migrant population (mainly youth) and their realities in its standard dynamics, which implies the elimination of discriminatory behaviors among the population. This has been a lengthy and progressive process (hence the duration of this project, which, despite being small, required many months for its proper execution), with advancements and possibly setbacks. However, once initiated, it generated autonomous dynamics that have persisted over time even after the project's completion. More young people of migrant origin have actively participated in their communities. Increased presence has reinforced changes in mentality within the population. Greater presence has led to greater change. Implementation 1. Preparation 2. Analysis of personal interests and needs related to the community integration of young migrants we work with. Focus groups, questionnaires, and personal interviews were conducted. 3. Training of these young individuals in social and communication skills, cultural context, and initiative: Various workshops and experiential activities were held during the months of July, August, September, and October to promote the development of these fundamental skills for effective community participation. 4. Increase in the participation of young migrants in community activities on equal terms: Building upon their interests and needs, and with enhanced competencies, young migrants were encouraged to engage in various community actions from September 2022 to June 2023. 5. Enhancement of the social perception of young migrants and closer understanding of their realities: Cultural activities such as theater, cinema, gastronomic exhibitions, and art workshops, along with debates and sports activities, among other initiatives, were organized. Achievements The young participants in the project experienced significant growth. They developed a heightened awareness of their interests and needs for community integration through interviews and questionnaires. They acquired fundamental social and communication skills through workshops based on non-formal education. Additionally, they gained an understanding of cultural context, facilitating interaction in diverse environments. The project promoted initiative and leadership, empowering the youth to actively engage in their communities, plan, and execute activities. It also encouraged their participation in community events, applying their skills and strengthening interpersonal relationships, fostering a sense of community belonging.