Author: Nikolina Frangoullidou

From September 30 to October 2, the SOOS Project hosted its Learning, Teaching, and Training Activity (LTTA) in Berlin, Germany, bringing together youth workers from each partner organization for an intensive training experience. This event provided an opportunity to delve into critical modules of the SOOS training program, equipping youth workers with essential skills and knowledge to support young people impacted by domestic violence.

During the three-day event, participants engaged with the first four modules of the training curriculum, which covered foundational concepts such as understanding the core terminology of domestic violence, trauma and resilience, and methods for identifying and responding to signs of domestic abuse. Additionally, the training included modules on safeguarding children, supporting affected youth, and ensuring self-care for youth workers to prevent burnout. Through interactive discussions and shared insights, youth workers deepened their understanding of these crucial areas, contributing valuable feedback to the program.

The highlight of the LTTA was an inspiring interaction with the HEROES® Initiative in Berlin, a project advocating for self-determination and equal rights. This experience highlighted HEROES®’ commitment to empowering youth and creating an environment where individuals can make their own choices without the constraints of traditional honor codes. To learn more about the HEROES® initiative, visit their website.

Through this LTTA, SOOS partners and youth workers have taken a significant step towards creating safer, more resilient communities for young people affected by domestic violence. The training marks an important milestone in the SOOS project, as it continues to develop resources and empower youth workers across Europe in their mission to support at-risk youth.

Find out more about the SOOS project here.

The HEARD project recently concluded with a successful final event in Mislata, Spain. Representatives from nine countries – Slovenia, Portugal, Italy, Sweden, Spain, Greece, Bulgaria, France, and Cyprus – gathered for this milestone event to engage in final discussions and activities.

Held at La Canaleta Park, the event attracted over 500 participants, including members of Mislata’s women’s associations, international project partners, and local authorities. Prominent figures such as Mayor Carlos Fernández Bielsa, Deputy Mayor and Councillor for Equality Policies María Luisa Martínez Mora, and Councillor for European Projects Ximo Moreno were present, alongside city council members. Their participation underscored the importance of cross-border cooperation to address pandemic-related challenges, particularly in supporting women’s rights and promoting gender equality.

Our team was honored to play a key role, presenting insights from Cyprus on best practices and challenges faced during the pandemic, with a focus on democracy, human rights, and the balance between women’s work and personal lives. This contribution enriched the dialogue, offering a comparative perspective based on the Cypriot experience.

Over the past two years, the HEARD project has been dedicated to engaging EU citizens in democratic processes, encouraging their involvement in shaping public policies that address their real needs. The initiative fostered an exchange of ideas on the gendered impacts of the health crisis, with the goal of supporting a more inclusive and equitable response across Europe.

Find out about the HEARD project here.