Role: Founder and Manager

Client: Lighthouse Relief

Timeframe: December 2016 - January 2018

Overview: Founded and managed the Youth Engagement Space (YES) to engage young refugees in Ritsona Camp, Greece, through creative methods, providing access to activities, resources, and opportunities for self-expression and skill development.

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Situation

Ritsona Camp hosts nearly 750 refugees, many of whom are young adults awaiting resettlement. In the absence of opportunities for work or study, these young people face uncertainty and boredom, leading to psychological distress and vulnerability to exploitation and substance abuse. The challenge was to address the overlooked needs of this demographic, offering activities and resources to promote participation, teamwork, and curiosity.

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Our Approach

Youth-Led Initiatives

• Fostered a sense of ownership and leadership among participants.

• Empowered youth to spearhead projects within the camp.

• Launched the Ritsona Kingdom Journal, a youth-led magazine showcasing their creativity and voices on a global platform.

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Creative Workshops

• Provided dynamic workshops and activities for self-expression and skill development.

• Offered a range of interests from art and photography to vocational training and language classes.

• Encouraged participants to explore their interests and talents.

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Leadership Development

• Provided dynamic leadership, training, and orientation to YES staff and volunteers.

• Ensured the effective implementation of programs and activities.

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Results

• Empowerment and Expression: Enabled youth to share their stories and talents globally.

• Safe and Supportive Environment: Fostered a safe space for participants to explore their experiences.

• Fostering Resilience: Combated psychological distress and fostered resilience among young refugees.

• Sense of Purpose: Promoted a sense of purpose and agency among participants.

• Global Recognition: Ritsona Kingdom Journal gave participants a global platform 

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The Youth Engagement Space (YES) successfully addressed the needs of young refugees in Ritsona Camp by providing creative and educational resources. Through initiatives like the Ritsona Kingdom Journal and dynamic workshops, YES empowered youth, fostered resilience, and promoted a sense of purpose and agency.