Pakiza’s project

Solidarity Through Creativity: Engaging Youth at Alderslyst Ungdomsklubben
Project Overview

The Solidarity Project at Alderslyst Ungdomsklubben was designed to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for young people from diverse backgrounds. Many of these youth come from war zones, have experienced violence, or require privacy on social media. The goal of the project was to encourage their participation in club activities while ensuring their safety and comfort in sharing their stories.

Project Process: How It Was Done

  1. Identifying the Challenge:
    • Many young club members were hesitant to participate in social media engagement due to privacy concerns and personal experiences.
    • Some felt disconnected and needed a sense of belonging in the club’s activities.
  2. Developing a Creative Solution:
    • To protect their identities while ensuring inclusion, I decided to turn their pictures into animations.
    • This allowed them to take part in club activities without fear, creating a safe space for self-expression.
  3. Action Plan & Execution:
    • Engagement: I spoke with young members to understand their concerns and introduce the idea of animated representations.
    • Designing Animations: Using digital tools, I converted their photos into stylized animated versions.
    • Social Media Sharing: The animated images were used in posts where the children could freely share about themselves while maintaining their privacy.
    • Encouraging Participation: As the project gained traction, more youth expressed interest in being part of these posts, leading to increased club attendance and involvement.

Project Implementation & Impact

  • Increased Club Engagement: Children who were previously hesitant began participating more actively.
  • A Safe Space for Expression: The project provided a platform for youth to share about themselves without fear or exposure.
  • Community Growth: The idea became popular, with more young people asking to be featured, fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging.
  • Sustained Interest: The project led to an ongoing initiative where animated storytelling became a tool for engagement.

Reflections & Lessons Learned

  • Inclusivity Matters: Creating a safe and inclusive space encouraged participation from those who otherwise might have stayed on the sidelines.
  • Creativity as a Tool for Social Change: Innovation, such as using animation, can make a significant impact in community work.
  • Small Actions Create Big Changes: What started as a simple solution grew into a movement that positively affected many young lives.
  • The Power of Solidarity: The project demonstrated that true solidarity lies in understanding the unique needs of individuals and adapting solutions accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This project reinforced my belief in the power of creative approaches in social work. By integrating animation into youth engagement, I was able to bridge gaps and make a meaningful impact. For future ESC volunteers or anyone working with diverse youth groups, this experience highlights the importance of adaptability, empathy, and innovation in fostering inclusive communities.

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