Role: Founder and Producer 

Client: Ritsona Refugee Camp Youth

Timeframe: March 2017-January 2019

​Overview: Produced and collaborated with youth from Ritsona Refugee Camp in the Youth Engagement Space of Lighthouse Relief to develop an online magazine aimed at amplifying the voices, art, and perspectives of young refugees to a global audience.

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Situation

Ritsona Refugee Camp accommodates numerous young refugees grappling with uncertainty and monotony amid limited prospects for employment or education. The challenge entailed establishing a purposeful avenue for their creativity and self-expression, coupled with a platform to disseminate their narratives to a wider audience. Addressing this imperative for a structured and impactful medium resulted in the inception of The Ritsona Kingdom Journal.

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Our Approach

Phase 1: Initial Workshops and Content Creation

• Conducted creative workshops in early 2017, providing resources and support to youth aged 15-25.

• Facilitated the production of artwork, writing, and photography reflecting personal experiences and perspectives.

• Helped participants develop their skills and find meaningful ways to express themselves.

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Phase 2: Idea to Launch a Magazine

• Inspired by the quality of creative work, youth proposed launching a magazine.

• Envisioned a publication to showcase their work and reach a wider audience outside the camp.

• Marked the birth of the Ritsona Kingdom Journal.

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Phase 3: Youth-Led Production

• Youth took charge of the magazine’s production with background support from Lighthouse Relief.

• Involved in all stages from content creation and graphic design to distribution.

• Empowered the youth, giving them ownership and control over their narratives.

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Phase 4: Community Events and Exhibitions

• Held large community events to celebrate each edition’s release.

• Invited camp residents, NGO workers, and members of the Greek community.

• Displayed printed pages in an art exhibit format, honoring the creators’ work and fostering community engagement.

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Phase 5: Expanding to an Online Platform

• Expanded the magazine to an online platform following the success of print editions.

• Official online launch on International Youth Day, reaching a global audience.

• Enabled greater dissemination and interaction with a broader audience.

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Results

• Empowerment and Expression: Provided a platform for youth to share their stories and artwork.

• Youth Leadership: Encouraged ownership and involvement in the magazine’s production.

• Community Engagement: Fostered connections between refugees, NGOs, and the local Greek community.

• Global Reach: Online platform amplified the impact of their stories and artwork.

• Advocacy: Addressed political and legal issues affecting their lives, giving a voice to the unheard.

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The Ritsona Kingdom Journal is a testament to the resilience and creativity of refugee youth. It provides a crucial outlet for self-expression and bridges the gap between the refugee community and the outside world. Through powerful storytelling and artistic expression, the journal fosters empathy and understanding, amplifying the voices of those living in limbo.