Desert Bloom actively participated in the "Equality in Networking" training course held in Badalona and hosted by Asociación La Rotllana. This course brought together 25 youth workers from 8 European and South Mediterranean countries. The primary focus of the training was to enhance participants' practical skills in building partnerships and designing as well as managing international projects, utilizing non-formal and informal education methods.

Promoting a culture of peer-learning, the training provided a platform for participants to exchange valuable insights and reflect on their experiences. The program incorporated experiential learning elements, including visits to like-minded organizations and the University of Barcelona, enriching the overall training experience.

Below is feedback from Desert Bloom participant:

Attending the training was a truly enriching experience, unveiling the significance of fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and co-creating international projects in multicultural settings.

Recognizing the pivotal role of team-building games cannot be overstated. These activities not only nurture collaboration, communication, and trust among team members but also serve as delightful tools to break the ice and cultivate robust relationships. Whether through a trust fall or a team scavenger hunt, these games contribute to heightened morale and increased productivity.

Exploring other organizations during the visits, particularly the University of Barcelona, was a highlight. The university stands as a prestigious institution renowned for its diverse academic programs, extensive research, and unwavering commitment to innovation. Its notable connection to sports includes engaging sports teams and programs that provide students with opportunities for participation and competition against other institutions. This involvement fosters physical fitness, teamwork, and discipline, ensuring students enjoy a well-rounded experience that balances academics with healthy competition.

The University of Barcelona's dedication to diversity and inclusivity is evident in its robust support for the immigrant community. Striving to create an inclusive environment, the university offers tailored resources and services to assist immigrant students in adapting and thriving academically. This approach underscores the institution's appreciation for the unique contributions of immigrant students to the university community.

The project is financed by the Erasmus+ group for workers and youth workers.

erasmus+ @cjamarante @sppmd @larotllana @ignetwork @associazioneinfirmagiovani @piya @ambitia

Speak Up! Training Course, September 11-17, 2024, Carei, Romania

The Speak Up Training Course was a direct response to the expressed desire among youth workers to enhance their public speaking skills and foster personal and professional growth. Organized by the Beyond Association-Romania, the training brought together 30 participants from eight countries: Portugal, Hungary, Romania, Spain, Jordan, Italy, Turkey, and Bulgaria.

The course delved into key topics such as anxiety management, resilience building, and effective communication strategies. Participants learned to recognize and manage their emotions, transforming anxiety into a positive force for personal growth. Additionally, the training explored Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques, providing valuable insights into enhancing communication and interpersonal skills.

Beyond the personal development aspects, the training offered participants the opportunity to explore the local municipality of Carei, gaining insights into its history, culture, and unique identity.

This project was co-financed by the European Union and served as a valuable platform for fostering international collaboration and empowering youth workers to become effective communicators and agents of change.

Feedback from Desert Bloom's Participants

Amr Aloury: "The Speak Up training course covered essential topics such as anxiety management, neural-linguistic programming, various communication methods, and interactive public speaking sessions. The course was well-structured, with a 9-hour daily schedule that included breaks and meals. We were also treated to a delightful Romanian dinner hosted by Delia and her mother. The cultural night was a highlight, allowing us to share and experience different cultures."

Raneem Ali: "The training was an enriching journey that focused on the crucial skills of speaking up and public speaking. It covered a wide range of topics, including managing anxiety, understanding mental health, building resilience, and mastering various forms of communication. The trainers, Teo and Delia, were exceptional, providing practical knowledge and actionable strategies. We also extend our gratitude to Adrian for his valuable contributions. The training was not only educational but also a wonderful opportunity to connect with new people and exchange ideas."

Overall, the Speak Up Training Course was a tremendous success, equipping me with valuable skills and inspired me to apply their learnings in my personal and professional lives.

Imagine a world where sport is a universal language, uniting people from all walks of life. That's exactly what the "Sport for Inclusion" Youth Exchange in Ohrid, North Macedonia, aimed to achieve. From August 24-31, 2024, approximately 30 young participants aged 14-17 from North Macedonia, Spain, and Jordan came together to explore the power of sport as a catalyst for inclusion and understanding.

The exchange, which was funded by the EU's programme's Erasmus Plus, was more than just a sports camp. It was a transformative experience that challenged stereotypes, fostered intercultural dialogue, and inspired participants to become agents of change. Through a variety of activities, including traditional games, sports, and collaborative projects, the young people shared their unique cultures and perspectives.

One of the highlights of the exchange was the creation of a new game designed to be inclusive of people from different backgrounds and abilities. Working together, the participants brought their creativity and ingenuity to life, designing a game that was both fun and accessible.

Beyond the sports and games, the exchange also provided opportunities for participants to engage with the local community and learn about different cultures. They visited historical sites, explored the stunning landscapes of Lake Ohrid, and volunteered their time to support local initiatives.

The "Sport for Inclusion" Youth Exchange was designed to achieve several key objectives:

• Empower young participants by inspiring them to transform their ideas into meaningful actions, driving positive change within their communities.
• Foster intercultural understanding by promoting respect, tolerance, and empathy among participants from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds.
• Break down stereotypes by challenging preconceived notions and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
• Promote active citizenship by encouraging participants to engage with their communities and contribute to the well-being of others.
• Support personal growth by helping participants discover their passions and explore potential career paths aligned with their interests.

As Rayan, a participant from Jordan, shared: "This exchange has opened my eyes to the incredible power of sport to unite people and break down barriers. It's a language that everyone can understand and appreciate. I'm inspired to continue advocating for inclusion in sports and to use my own experiences to make a difference in my community. I was also struck by the many similarities between Jordanian and European cultures. Seeing a mosque standing next to a church in Macedonia highlighted the importance of peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians."

The "Sport for Inclusion" Youth Exchange was a resounding success, demonstrating the transformative potential of sports and the importance of fostering intercultural understanding. By bringing together young people from different countries and backgrounds, the exchange created a lasting legacy of friendship, collaboration, and a shared commitment to building a more inclusive world.

"Health is Your Wealth" Youth Exchange, 4-13 August 2024, Cēsis, Latvia

The "Health is Your Wealth" Youth Exchange brought together 25 teenagers from Latvia, Jordan, Ukraine, Lithuania, Poland, and Hungary to raise awareness about the dangers of addiction and promote healthier lifestyles. Hosted by the Latvian Association for Youth Activists in Cēsis, Latvia, this initiative was co-funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ program.

Feedback from Desert Bloom’s participants:

"Our participation in this project was truly transformative, enriching our lives in many ways. By focusing on both physical and mental well-being, we embraced a more holistic approach to health, addressing harmful habits and adopting healthier lifestyle choices.

Through interactive workshops and collaborative activities, we enhanced our interpersonal skills and discovered the importance of teamwork. Moreover, we gained a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures, expanding our perspectives through meaningful cross-cultural exchanges. We are deeply grateful to Desert Bloom for providing us with this life-changing opportunity."

Desert Bloom participated in EcoChangemakers2 Training Course Held in Cluj Napoca, Romania, from August 1-8, 2024

From August 1–8, 2024, the city of Cluj Napoca, Romania, hosted the EcoChangemakers2 Training Course, an international initiative aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and collaboration among young leaders from around the world. Participants from Turkey, Jordan, Romania, Belarus, Greece, and Germany came together to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and develop innovative solutions to global environmental challenges.

The project is co-financed by the European Union and organized by kukukultur, Germany and hosted by Asociatia Beyond, Romania

Program Objectives
The EcoChangemaker Program sought to:

• Deepen participants' understanding of pressing environmental issues.
• Facilitate the exchange of sustainable practices across different countries.
• Encourage the development of collaborative, cross-border environmental projects.
• Strengthen cultural and professional ties among young leaders.

Key Activities
Throughout the week-long training course, participants engaged in a range of activities designed to inspire collaboration and learning:

• Workshops: Interactive sessions covered critical topics such as renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, providing participants with practical knowledge to apply in their home countries.
• Field Visits: Visits to local eco-friendly businesses and sustainability projects offered participants hands-on experience with real-world applications of sustainable practices.
• Group Discussions: Facilitated dialogues allowed participants to explore global environmental issues, propose innovative solutions, and share perspectives on sustainability.
• Collaborative Projects: International teams worked together to design and launch outreach projects aimed at raising environmental awareness. These included educational materials such as social media campaigns and videos, which were tailored to be scalable and adaptable to local contexts.

Program Outcomes
The EcoChangemakers2 Training Course yielded several important outcomes:

• Knowledge Exchange: Participants gained new insights into environmental sustainability, learning both from the program's content and from each other’s diverse experiences.
• Networking: Strong networks were formed, creating a community of young leaders committed to advancing environmental causes across multiple countries.
• Cultural Exchange: The program also fostered mutual understanding and respect through cultural exchange, further enhancing collaboration among participants from diverse backgrounds.

Recommendations for Future Programs
To enhance the effectiveness of future dissemination efforts, the following recommendations were made:

• Tailored Messaging: Develop culturally relevant messaging strategies to ensure greater impact in diverse contexts.
• Resource Support: Provide additional resources, such as funding, technology, and mentorship, to support participants in implementing their dissemination projects.

Valuable Lessons for Desert Bloom Representatives
The participation of Desert Bloom in the EcoChangemakers2 Project provided several key takeaways:

• Environmental Education: Innovative methods of environmental education experienced in Romania could be adapted for Jordanian schools and communities.
• Raising Awareness: Experiences from the program can be leveraged to raise awareness in Jordan about global environmental issues and the need for international cooperation.
• Sustainable Practices: Exposure to sustainable living practices in Romania, such as organic farming, can inspire similar initiatives in Jordan.
• Resource Management: Insights into Romania’s natural resource management, particularly in water conservation, could inform better resource practices in Jordan.

Conclusion
The EcoChangemakers2 Program in Romania was a resounding success, achieving its goals of promoting environmental awareness, fostering collaboration, and encouraging cultural exchange. The diverse group of participants from Turkey, Jordan, Romania, Belarus, Greece, and Germany created a vibrant learning environment. The collaborative projects initiated during the program have the potential to generate significant environmental impact in the participating countries.

Eco-friendly Sport Workshop

Desert Bloom hosted the Eco-friendly Sport Workshop in Amman and Balqa from July 1-2, 2024. The workshop, which is part of Part of the "Sports 4 Healthy Life" Project, was attended by 30 participants from government institutions, academia, civil society, subject matter experts, and youth. It covered key environmental issues and mitigation strategies. In the first half, the workshop focused on Earth-inspired concepts such as Earth-based feminism and Eco-tourism, water challenges and strategies in Jordan, solid waste management in Jordan, as well as global challenges like water scarcity and global warming.

The second part of the workshop was dedicated to practical techniques and strategies to mitigate and adapt to various environmental challenges. Participants brainstormed innovative ideas for applying Zero-waste principles (the 5 R’s of Conservation: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, and Recycle). They also learned about eco-friendly sports and highlighted sports that best protect our environment. Finally, participants calculated their ecological footprints and discussed ways to minimize their individual environmental impacts.

The second day was dedicated to field visits in Balqa Governorate, including the College of Agriculture Technology at Al-Balqa' Applied University (BAU) in Salt, the Albalqa Innovation Institute in Bayyudah, Mysara Forest, the Ecological Park in As-Subayhi, and the old city of Salt (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). The workshop is part of the "Sports for Healthy Life" project, supported by the European Commission's Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), and coordinated by Sorgun Youth Association within the framework of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) Volunteer Teams in High Priority Areas Programme.

Sport for Healthy Life project uses sports as a platform to empower young people facing adversity. It aims to: • Help young people identify their strengths and build self-confidence to overcome challenges.

• Broaden their perspectives by exposing them to new experiences and ideas, opening doors to future possibilities.
• Foster a belief in positive change, encouraging a hopeful outlook for the future.
• Enhance life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, which are valuable in all aspects of life.

Exciting News from the ARABLE Project! EnABLE Youth” Training- Morocco, 12-15 May 2024

The ARABLE project has reached a significant milestone with the successful “EnABLE Youth” training event held in the beautiful city of Fes, Morocco. The training was host by the partner organization, EURO-MED EVE MOROC, accommodated 30 dedicated youth workers from the 10 member organizations of the ARABLE consortium. This empowering event focused on empowering youth, fostering inclusivity, and driving sustainable change through equipping disabled youth with valuable entrepreneurship skills in sustainable agriculture. Moreover, the “EnABLE Youth” training provided a remarkable opportunity for participants to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and foster a sense of community. Together, we are paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future in agriculture.

The training continue with ARABLE project endeavors to tackle the obstacles faced by individuals with disabilities, particularly focusing on youth unemployment, discriminatory practices, and environmental sustainability within the agricultural domain. Geared towards empowering young people to become ambassadors for future societies, the project prioritizes environmental conservation, professional opportunities, and inclusive participation. Recognizing the burgeoning potential of the agricultural sector and the imperative of youth engagement, ARABLE aligns with the European Commission’s concerns regarding climate change while aiming to empower disabled youths in rural settings. 

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to empower and inspire through the ARABLE project!

https://youtu.be/x67NMtinWs8

Hosted by ROSI FRANCE-ESSONNE, France, as part of the Erasmus Plus program generously funded by the European Union, this dynamic training gathered 26 dedicated youth workers from both Europe and the MENA Region (France, Germany, Romania, Italy, Jordan, Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco). Together, they embarked on an enlightening journey into the realm of storytelling, recognizing its transformative potential in uplifting young individuals navigating the complexities of social exclusion.

Participants delved into how digital expression amplifies voices and fosters inclusivity. They unpacked cultural dynamics, dismantling stereotypes and cultivating an appreciation for diversity. This journey equipped them with skills to prevent radicalization among youth.

The course offered a dynamic mix of activities, including video production, interactive games, drawing exercises, and collaborative storytelling. These weren't just for fun – they fostered creativity, collaboration, and equipped participants with practical strategies to raise awareness about the issues explored. Participants learned how to use digital tools to bridge divides, celebrate shared humanity, and see cultural diversity as an opportunity, not a threat."

This training addressed the rising trend of youth polarization. By equipping participants with skills to work with marginalized groups (ethnic minorities, migrants, and refugees), it paved the way for a more inclusive and compassionate future.

Check this video about the training:

https://youtu.be/eUU59adISH4

Feedback from Desert Bloom Team:

Ola Estaitia (Group leader)

“Personally, I'm incredibly grateful for this opportunity. The learning journey and the friendships forged with participants from diverse backgrounds were truly enriching. The training has contributed to my intercultural sensitivity and boosted my digital skills. Beyond the training classes, we enjoyed rich cultural experiences together. We visited the Alexandria National Museum and the iconic Library of Alexandria, savoring delicious Egyptian street food on Alexandria Beach. We also had the opportunity to visit the opera and an organization dedicated to storytelling with refugee and war-torn children. These experiences deepened our understanding and fostered a sense of connection.

Raha Daqa:

My experience with the “story behind minds” training was truly transformative. It equipped me with the skills to utilize digital tools effectively, fostering connections, promoting empathy, and embracing the beauty of cultural diversity. I am deeply thankful for the opportunity and the lasting impact it has had on me.

Deena Zeidan

This immersive experience provided invaluable insights and practical skills for navigating the complexities of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including ethnic minorities, immigrants, and refugees. Through engaging sessions encompassing video production, interactive games, drawing exercises, and collaborative storytelling, we delved deep into the essence of empathy and intercultural understanding. I would like to express my gratitude to Desert Bloom for providing me with this amazing opportunity. This was a valuable experience that will stay with me in both my personal and professional life.

"Discover Culture: Drobin" Youth Exchange

The "Discover Culture: Drobin" Youth Exchange, held in Drobin, Poland, from April 8-19, 2024, was a transformative journey for 35 young people from Poland, Latvia, Romania, Armenia, Jordan, Serbia, and Ukraine. This Erasmus+ funded project, organized by  EUROMED EVE POLSKA, Poland, aimed to foster cultural awareness and appreciation by exploring the traditions, customs, and cultural heritage of each participating country.

Each national team actively shared their unique cultural aspects through engaging activities, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of similarities and differences. The project successfully bridged cultural gaps and ignited a passion for cultural diversity among the participants.

Rayan Khreisat's Testimonial:

"Participating in the 'Discover Culture: Drobin' Youth Exchange wasn't just about sightseeing; it was a life-changing experience. Immersing myself in diverse cultures opened my eyes to the beauty of our interconnected world, igniting a passion within me to appreciate cultural diversity, develop a global mindset, and protect our precious environment.

From Poland's awe-inspiring architecture to the vibrant music and cuisine I encountered elsewhere, each culture offered a unique window into a different way of life. Collaborating with international peers with diverse perspectives pushed me outside my comfort zone, honing my teamwork skills and fostering a deep appreciation for different approaches.

Beyond the cultural immersion, this journey was also a journey of self-discovery. I've become more confident and self-reliant, thanks to the challenges and new experiences I embraced. Exploring the rich tapestry of art and architecture in Poland remains a particular highlight. It was truly captivating! I am eager to repeat this experience again and again."

Desert Bloom, in collaboration with URI-MENA (United Religions Initiative - Middle East and North Africa) and its CCs, partnered with Qudorat in Mafraq to bring joy and essential aid to families in need this Ramadan.

This initiative went beyond mere distribution. It provided a valuable opportunity for Desert Bloom to immerse themselves in Qudorat's impactful work. The visit included exploring their new facilities, learning about their programs and beneficiaries, and interacting with their dedicated team members. Together, they united efforts to distribute vital resources like clothing and food packages, ensuring a brighter Ramadan for many.

A highlight of the visit was a powerful dialogue with twelve remarkable young women from Qudorat CC. These women, the backbone of the organization, manage logistics, communication, and planning. The discussion explored a range of topics, including volunteerism awareness, challenges faced by women in Mafraq, and the impact of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The women's resilience and strength were evident as they shared how their work and personal lives have been affected. This insightful exchange fostered a deeper understanding of their experiences and the crucial role they play in Qudorat CC's success.

Desert Bloom extends its heartfelt gratitude to Qudorat CC for their warm hospitality and meticulous preparation. Their thoughtful sorting of clothes by family size and creation of food packages ensured each family received the most useful items for their needs.

"Intercultural Dialogue" Youth Exchange in Frankfurt, Germany, March 11-18, 2024

The Youth Exchange fostered intercultural understanding among young people from diverse backgrounds. They explored the role of culture in the lives of youth around the world, with a specific focus on addressing pressing social issues currently facing Europe. Facilitating open dialogue, attendees actively shared insights from their home countries, contributing to a rich exchange of perspectives.

The project was a collaborative effort organized by Delphin e.V. – Germany and sponsored by Erasmus+, the European Union's program for education, training, youth and sport. Partner organizations included Desert Bloom for Training and Sustainable Development (Jordan), Have A Dream (Egypt), CREATORIUM (Norway), and LEVEL UP (Poland).

Reflections from Desert Bloom’s team:

Saud Qasem, Jordan Team Leader

Our time in Frankfurt was not just about learning; it was about fostering understanding, empathy, and forging connections across borders. We return home with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the importance of intercultural dialogue in shaping a more inclusive and harmonious global community.

Esraa Awad

Germany's Youth Exchange transformed me. As a Desert Bloom team member, I had the privilege of representing Jordan’s rich culture, vibrant history, and cherished traditions.. Food became a bridge - each team's dish a delicious adventure. Beyond presentations, we explored German culture, forging friendships through art, music, and history. This unforgettable experience, filled with open dialogue and shared experiences, built bridges across borders. I'm grateful to Desert Bloom for this transformative journey. The friendships and cultural understanding I gained will enrich my life back home.

Mohammad Al-Shboul:

The "Intercultural Dialogue" Youth Exchange in Frankfurt was truly remarkable. It marked my first encounter with young people from Norway, offering a profound introduction to their rich cultures and perspectives. Surprisingly, it also served as my inaugural collaboration with representatives from Egypt, broadening my cultural horizons even further. The organizers, notably Ibtissam, displayed exceptional hospitality, ensuring our every need was met.

Desert Bloom took part in the "My Virtual Existence" Youth Exchange held in Samobor, Croatia, from January 9th to 18th, 2024. The project aimed to illuminate both the positive and negative aspects of virtual existence, ranging from the impact of social media on self-esteem to the role of online communities in fostering a sense of belonging. It provided an in-depth exploration of how online experiences influence the mood, emotions, and worldview of young people, as well as the ways in which digital interactions shape their daily lives. With participation from six countries – Georgia, Spain, Croatia, Albania, Turkey, and Jordan – the youth exchange offered a comprehensive perspective on how the digital world shapes the emotional landscapes and perspectives of today's youth. It provided a platform for youth to discuss, explore, and critically approach these issues.

Here's a revised version of the details of the experience:

Day 1: We arrived in Croatia, marking the beginning of our journey.

Day 2: We commenced our mutual discovery, getting to know each other as we entered the youth exchange program and fostered relationships through team-building activities. Our journey began with a "Mission Impossible" challenge, fostering connections and camaraderie among us. As we tackled obstacles, we unveiled the diverse perspectives and insights each participant brought to the virtual realm, enriching our understanding of our varied thoughts and experiences.

Day 3: We embarked on a journey of self-reflection, contemplating the role of social media in our daily lives. Our exploration extended to the historical evolution of the internet, social networks, and technological advancements, offering deeper insights into the diverse perspectives within our group.

Day 4: We imagined a world without social networks, pondering its potential implications on our lives. Our exploration also delved into emotional intelligence, discussing its profound influence on success. Through research and discussion, we enhanced our understanding of the pervasive influence of social media content and brainstormed strategies to foster resilience.

Day 5: We delved into the world of gaming, familiarizing ourselves with its specialized language and culture. Our discussions explored controversies surrounding gaming, including issues of violence and gender representation. We brainstormed proactive solutions to mitigate risks associated with gaming.

Day 6: Our focus shifted to the integration of AI within social media platforms and content recommendation systems. We discussed the mechanics of algorithms and engaged in debates about AI's limitations in critical thinking and creativity. Additionally, we celebrated our diverse backgrounds through an intercultural night of dances and culinary delights.

Day 7: We explored remote work and its ongoing impact, especially in light of COVID-19. Our discussions highlighted the importance of digital literacy for remote workers and staged a play illustrating the motivations behind remote employment.

Day 8: We gathered to reflect on our learnings and conclusions from the exchange. With thoughtful deliberation, we summarized our insights before embarking on a final outing, ending our journey with an ice-skating trip filled with laughter and joy.

Testimonies:

Heam Khaddams: "My first Erasmus+ experience was truly remarkable and unforgettable. I cherished every moment, from being part of a dynamic team to meeting people from diverse backgrounds and immersing myself in different cultures. Together, we nurtured creativity, learned from each other, and formed lasting bonds that will stay with me for a lifetime."

Ahmad Ezz-Aldin: "Being part of this project was an extraordinary experience, and I'm grateful for the opportunity. Through this journey, I discovered new ways to unleash my creativity and improve my social skills. This project provided an experience beyond my imagination, leaving lasting memories that I will always cherish."

https://youtu.be/oq6XOgbQjco