ONDE’s Leadership Team Joins the Euredeas Seminar in Spain
- ONDE
- Jul 9, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 21, 2024
From June 17 to 21, the vibrant city of Vigo, Spain, became a hub of discussion, learning, and collaboration during the Euredeas Seminar. Hosted by the Spanish NGO, Accem Vigo office, this seminar brought together youth workers and youth leaders from nine different European organizations, including ONDE's leadership team, to delve into critical issues impacting migrants and refugees.
The seminar provided a platform for participants to share experiences and insights about the challenges faced by migrants and refugees. It was an enriching experience where legal experts shed light on the varying legal contexts across Europe, helping participants understand the complexities and nuances involved in refugee and migrant issues.
One of the most valuable aspects of the seminar was the interaction with psychologists and counselors who work directly with refugees. These professionals offered a deep dive into the mental health challenges faced by refugees, emphasizing the need for tailored support and intervention strategies. Topics such as acculturative stress, the balance between integration and assimilation, marginalization, and effective social intervention techniques were thoroughly discussed.
A standout moment of the week was Accem’s Refufest, held on June 20 in celebration of World Refugee Day. This event provided a unique opportunity to meet refugees living in Vigo and enjoy an array of cultural performances. From a mesmerizing magic show to the lively beats of drum music by Escola Aperta, Refufest was a vibrant celebration of resilience and community spirit. Additional highlights included a lunch celebration of Eid al-Adha hosted by local migrants at A Morada Cooperativa's cultural space, a tour of Accem's Vigo office and planning future project collaborations with the participating organizations.
The seminar was attended by 25 participants from 10 different countries, making it a melting pot of ideas and perspectives. For ONDE’s team, this was not just a professional development opportunity but also a chance to share the realities faced by young people in Lecce with a broader audience. The seminar facilitated a rich exchange of knowledge, fostering personal growth and expanding ONDE’s network across Europe.
ONDE’s participation in the Euredeas Seminar has equipped its team with enhanced skills and knowledge to better serve migrants and refugees in our community. The insights gained, especially regarding mental health and legal contexts, will undoubtedly inform ONDE’s future initiatives and programs.
This week in Vigo was a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of addressing the needs of vulnerable communities with compassion and expertise. As ONDE continues its mission, the lessons learned and connections made at the Euredeas Seminar will play a crucial role in shaping a more inclusive and supportive environment for migrants and refugees in Lecce and beyond.
Stay tuned for more updates on ONDE’s ongoing efforts and future initiatives inspired by this transformative experience in Vigo.
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The Euredeas Seminar was coordinated by Accem Vigo and co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union.