Entering the “e-bridge”

“As our staff worked through the summer months preparing the e-bridge digital platform, we dreamed together about how young people would engage with the platform and how it would open new conversations and hopefully help our communities look forward.

There was a new air of optimism in Kosovo as for the first time in the countries short history the national government had a working majority in parliament, a national vaccine programme to tackle COVID had started and our YMCA had reopened with face to face activities over summer. Our friends and partners from YMCA Serbia had visited Prishtina and we were all excited for what was shaping up to be a great winter.

I am often reminded of a quote I heard “peace is a journey not a destination” and as summer came to a close, our plans started to crash.

Firstly due to a summer of too much activity and many Diaspora returning to see loved ones, after being prohibited during lockdown Kosovo was plunged back into restrictions and curfews. Schools and youth centres were closed and we were once again forced to switch digital to keep YMCA members engaged but this time with no clear timeframe or guidance.

Then an old border issue ignited over licence plates between Kosovo and Serbia and those travelling between the two countries were caught up in temporary plates, printed numbers and stickers.

As you read these words most people (especially living in the EU) would wonder why such a thing was an issue- however the smallest of issues here allows political posturing, a chance to assert dominance and to win favour in upcoming municipality elections. Statements were made, tensions raised and security forces put on alert- a wonderful time to initiate a cross-border project.

During the Peace Work Institute a lot of emphasis was put on the “do no harm” approach and organisations like the YMCA who are crossing borders and working in post war regions never really do get the credit they deserve.

Finding that balance between promoting what you are doing and working in broken communities is never easy. We live in an age of fake news and media bias and with many people throughout the world getting their “news” from social media this can all contribute to hate speech/ distrust and a return to certain narratives that fail to move the country forward.

As our YMCA started to promote the e-bridge platform with its matrix theme branding we were met with mixed reaction from some of our volunteers and young leaders, recently our YMCA in Kosovo have been working with YMCA Ireland and we have touched on intergenerational trauma (defined as trauma that gets passed down from those who directly experience an incident to subsequent generations) but as we played the trailer for the e-bridge this was very present- it led to discussions, it led to young people not wanting to be involved, it sparked debates about the recent border issues and the long term issues between countries.

As we reflected as a team on our next steps I was once again reminded that peace is a journey not a destination.

e-bridge teaser trailer

As we plan our next steps and enter the e-bridge together with young people from the region and the Island of Ireland I am reminded that this is just the start and a gateway to further activities, discussions and personal peace journeys.”

By Adi Davies, YMCA Kosovo

Learn more about the “e-bridge” project here.

Peace Work Institute online hangout

Peace Work Institute is back on Roots central stage!

The online hangout organized on November 20th was the first step of what promises to be another remarkable adventure for those that signed up and were selected to be a part of it.

To begin with, we had a “sell-out” – 100 % attendance by those to lead and facilitate in different capacities, as well as those to learn and contribute to the process that is set to start on December 3rd in charming Tbilisi, Georgia.

With agenda looking like this:

To get to know each other;
To learn background information about the Roots and specifically Peace Work Institute;
To clarify pending practical issues regarding the logistics or the content of the event.

And as we went on to make acquaintances in the most entertaining and creative ways – mapping the PWI Geography across the continent while introducing ourselves, it was then time to learn about the motivation of each and every one of us to be a part of the scheme – personal and professional.

Wide range of feedback was obtained, as expected – with Peace, Networking & New Friends being the most anticipated.

These aspects are and have always been the cornerstone of Peace Work Institute, therefore we are truly excited to already have the synergy between the expectations of participants and what we aim to achieve!

There was still time to conduct Questions & Answers session and cater to those inquiries that participants have prior to the start.

These are uncertain times we live in at the moment and it is only natural to have concerns and anxiety, but all of us are confident and determined to come together and create another milestone chapter in the history book of the Roots!

I am ROOTS: Ani Kalabegashvili

Since its inception in 2012 and with two cohorts (2012-2014, 2014-2019) of participants that passed through it, the Roots Peace Work Institute (PWI) sought to enroll young leaders of different backgrounds from across Europe, young people who were and are a voice and not an echo – eager to learn, to try, to grow… Like raw diamonds to shine after the grind.

And we believe that most of these 46 Alumni managed to develop both personally and professionally as they journeyed through PWI.

Today we share with you the story of Ani Kalabegashvili, an amazing young leader from Georgia.

“I come from Tbilisi and I’m happy to be back home after being in so many places, missing my family for the better part of the last 5 years. I’ve been studying Psychology in Germany since 2017. Right now I’m a little far from my major profession and work as a freelancer remotely. In the crazy pandemic world, working from home became a normal way of life, I guess,” shared Ani.

Roots was her first experience in a peace work related project. She joined it in 2012, the Program Festival in Artsakh, Shushi being the starting point.

Ani at Program Festival in Artsakh, Shushi, 2021

“I cannot explain how different and new this experience was for me. I was 18 at that time and everything was so new and fascinating for me. The people, same as me, who have the same issues as me, same expectations in life, same stories… I felt like a piece of something bigger and I still remember that feeling. I am honored to be one of the first participants, who could observe the whole creation and organization process,” says Ani.

In her speech, Ani also mentioned that the project has been an eye-opening and mind-blowing experience from day 1.

She said with no doubt that Roots has given her a bunch of new experiences, new friends, and connections all over the world that she cherishes till today. Ani changed her perspective on many things and as she says, has definitely become more understanding and empathic towards people from different backgrounds.

Peace Work Institute Reunion, European Youth Centre Budapest, 2014

“One of the latest reunions we had with the group was in Toledo, Spain. We came together after approximately 2 years since I’ve seen Roots’ people and it was really great to meet them again. It was amazing to see how everyone has grown, listening to their stories from the last couple of years. Just to feel being a part of it again. Roots is a family across borders.

I would definitely recommend young people from conflict regions to join this program. I think we’ve created a safe environment for them to speak up, share, find friends and be heard, regardless of what they have to say. In fact, I have already advised my sister and my brother to join, and they’ve been active in YMCA’s latest camps and events, for that I’m very happy. I want them to have the same perspective and amazing experiences I have had in the last 10 years”, concludes Ani.

Peace Work Institute Reunion 2019, Toledo, Spain

Since 2007 and ever growing, from the South to the North, from the East to the West of Europe – the Roots has always been there for those striving to make this world a better and safer place, a peaceful home for all. We go where the need is, responding quickly to the emerging issues with the legacy and mandate, capacity and adaptability gained for all these years.

By donating to the Roots, you invest in youth opinion leaders from all corners of Europe – varied by age, ethnicity, religion, race or wealth, but united with one strong conviction – Peace is the only way!

The Seventh Roots & Next Quarterly is Issued

Roots & Next Quarterly #7 is here – a detailed reflection upon the past 3 months (July – September 2021) and anticipation of a busy Winter ahead of us.

Already running for over a year, we are excited to also showcase YMCA Europe Generation Next in this newsletter.

The highlights of this period were the events where we managed to bring young people from all over Europe together and face to face, after almost 2 years of lockdown and restrictions.

Please stay healthy, all of you – we have a lot to do, together!

The pdf version is available for download .

Roots ProFest | Be a voice not an echo

Since its inception back in 2007, there were more than 40 International events organized within the Roots framework. And being there from the very first steps that project took, I can safely claim that I have been part of at least 30 of them.

The recent “Be a Voice, not an Echo” Study Session organized at European Youth Center Budapest on September 12-18, 2021 was arguably one of the most challenging of them all due to many aspects – amidst the pandemic and related restrictions, cancellations and general uncertainty.

But there were other “most”s too and perhaps they were the main reason why my initial expectations during the build-up for the event – “this will be an activity to forget” were totally disproven while that one week in Budapest.

To start with – this was one of the youngest groups we ever had – 37 young people from 10 countries of all corners of Europe had very little experience in international work, but an immense desire to learn and grow! And so they did – never before I have seen such an immediate change and impact, it was happening right in front of our eyes!

How?! Through a variety of workshops and activities dedicated to building values, reconciliation, critical thinking or peace building methodologies; “world cafe” to learn more about different tools and resources related to the topics above; practical exercises in national or mixed teams and elaborating of projects to be supported by Roots at their implementation phase.

It was there that Roots Peace Award Ceremony took place – The Council of Europe Youth Department & YMCA in Kosovo were celebrated for their outstanding support and cooperation with the Roots. The video recording of the ceremony is available here.

And all of it accompanied with good vibes and positivity – this was the group of young people that longed for interaction and human touch and enjoyed it to the fullest once they got it.

Their voices grew louder in Budapest and I am sure we’ll hear them soon all over Europe – those of friendship, empowerment and change.

It was all that we wished for…

Full photo album is available in high resolution here

An article by Rezi Shavladze

I am ROOTS: Anastasia Tsygankova

And we believe that most of these 46 Alumni managed to develop both personally and professionally as they journeyed through PWI.

Today we share with you the story of Anastasia Tsygankova, an experienced young activist from Russia.

Anastasia has been living in Ivanovo, Russia since she was born. She loves studying, probably that’s why she has got several diplomas.

Anastasia graduated from two faculties at Ivanovo State University: Economics and Language (English). In 2009 she became an Accountant/ auditor and Interpreter in the professional field (Economics). Almost at the same time, she was studying Psychology and Psychotherapy. Psychology is still the field of her great interest and somehow she keeps learning.

Anastasia joined Roots in 2013 in Yerevan. Since 2015 she has been working at YMCA Russia as an Office Manager (part-time) and at her local YMCA as a Program Coordinator (part-time).

“My YMCA story started with International Camp. Campers and counselors were from Germany, Spain, and Russia. Any international event for me is about peace, understanding, the special ability to look at the world through someone’s eyes, Communication, and the Opportunity to SEE a person and not a country, culture, traditions or a history”

“I am extremely thankful to Roots for those beautiful people who I met on my journey. They are so different, but each of them taught me something – e.g. how to laugh out loud, how not to get angry with someone or how to see both sides of a coin. Roots helped me to see the diversity of the world and because of that its beauty”, said Anastasia.

When we asked Anastasia to describe Roots in three words, her answer was: “New broad horizon.”

She loves talking about unforgettable moments she lived in Roots: “Lots of memories broke out to me. Having a Tea Party in Yerevan and wonderful laugh together with Zura; sitting together and singing songs to a guitar; looking into each other’s eyes in pairs; playing games at night; working on River of Life and many more. Just great moments of my life. It is so precious to me…”

“I would absolutely recommend the program to others. It provides a safe space for young people to discuss, listen, share, show and talk. It helps to see People and not conflict, their real-life stories and realize that we are much closer than we think.”

The Council of Europe Youth Department receives YMCA Europe’s 2021 „Peace Award”

There could hardly be a better place and occasion to award YMCA Europe Local Capacities for Peace Award 2021: 38 young participants of “Be a Voice, not an Echo” were there at European Youth Center Budapest to witness Peace Medals go to YMCA in Kosovo and Youth Department – Council of Europe.

YMCA Europe Executive Secretary, Vardan Hambardzumyan connected online together with Antje Rothemund, Head of the Youth Department of the Council of Europe & Adrian Davies, Youth Director of YMCA Kosovo to coordinate the ceremony and celebrate outstanding partnership and cooperation enjoyed with laureate organizations over the years.

In addition, the occasion certainly served as an appropriate platform to demonstrate the true dimension of Roots for Peace project and as an inspiration and example for everyone in the room that hard work, commitment and perseverance always pay off!

The recording of the ceremony is available below.

Let it be Campfire…

After the war, very few youth, social or cultural events can be seen in Artsakh. People seem to be ashamed to smile. Men are ashamed that they are alive, but their compatriots are not. Women are ashamed that their husbands are alive, but their friends’ husbands are not. Mothers are ashamed that they can hug their sons, but the neighbor can not.

But people have to live, people who have survived also need trauma-healing.

Since 2017, YMCA Artsakh has been organizing summer camps with up to one hundred participants from different regions of Artsakh. After a long break, as the camp did not take place in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the organization decided to organize a camp this year.

The objective, however, was very different this year. If fun and entertainment were the central elements on previous occasions, this time it was a trauma-healing camp. As there is a great need for it in Artsakh․․․

Planning & Prep meeting

About 30 young people from different cities and villages came together for the event that had two purposes:

to meet each other and share the feelings after the war, as well as to make the participants feel that we are next to each other during these difficult days;
to create a platform for the camp in July and discuss the preparations for it.

The leaders of the YMCA Artsakh conducted a survey to find out what topics should be included in the camp agenda or, for example, which sports games would be more interesting.

The Camp

More than 80 young people gathered under the shade of beautiful mountains of Artsakh to spend seven wonderful days.

“Camp for Peace” was a tent camp, so people were able to get out of their comfort zone, especially since there was no internet connection and they learned to live in harmony with each other, sharing personal space, food, and leisure time.

A number of sports games were organized in the camp. Pre-divided teams – home groups took part in it. Volleyball, a sport that was actually invented in YMCA, was particularly popular.

And if during previous years there was a constant dispute about who would get to play on the only Volleyball Field on the premises, this time the issue was resolved by organizing the Tournament. All the teams were happy to partake and in the feedback all highlighted it as one of the best events in the camp.

Like every year, this year a lot of attention was paid to educational programs. One of the trainers was Tevan Poghosyan, Advisor to the President of the Republic of Armenia, who taught young people the skills of negotiating.

There was also a political scientist Benjamin Poghosyan, who spoke about the causes of the Artsakh war and the visions for the future of Artsakh. The young people learned how to write a CV, apply for different jobs and how to go for an interview. As well as what critical thinking is, how to manage conflict and how to resolve it.

This year the participants had two new topics: video-making and storytelling. The latter in particular made the camp very special, as people got to know each other better and saw each other’s wounds more closely.

The camp was rich with interesting participants who had a long and difficult way to visit the village of Patara. The camp was attended by displaced youth, people who lost their fathers, brothers, friends, and spouses. People who were wounded during the war participated in a public event for the first time with their burns.

The participants were visited by a number of cultural figures, who played the guitar by the fire. They sang songs, cried together, rejoiced and remembered the people who are no longer with us.

The last day of the camp is always spent until the morning at the disco. But not this time. On the last day, in a very close, familiar environment, people opened up and shared their pain. During storytelling, a number of young people learned how to write people’s stories. These stories were not just homework, they were read to everyone.

It is indescribable how emotional people got because they heard about the wounds of people on whose faces they only saw laughter during those seven days. On that day, we can say that these people became one family because they saw each other in the most genuine way. That activity was the biggest and most appropriate psychological support to these people.

The participants were sad to leave the camp, but the connection they created is very strong. Until today and more than a month later, the participants organize gatherings and continue their friendship. This is the YMCA, the beginning of a new family and lifelong friendships.

YMCA Europe has provided great support to YMCA Artsakh after the war. 10,000 Euros were raised via online campaign and matched with another 10,000 in order to ensure the implementation of a trauma-healing camp in 2021 (within the Roots Local Capacities for Peace facility) and to fund the activities in Artsakh for the coming year as well.

Check out the full photo album of the event.

I am Roots: Maria Costa

And we believe that most of these 46 Alumni managed to develop both personally and professionally as they journeyed through PWI.

Today we share with you the story of Maria Eduarda Costa, a positive young leader from Portugal.

Maria works as a social worker and helps people with schizophrenia to be integrated into society. In parallel, she is doing her Ph.D. in the same field and volunteers in the Red Cross.

Before Roots, Maria didn’t have any experience in peace work, but she was already engaged in conflict management. “For me, Roots is a big door for being a part of the YMCA. Usually, people come to Roots from the YMCA, but in my case it was the other way. From a smaller family, I went to a bigger one and that was very important and life-changing for me. After the years with Roots, I had the opportunity to become a member of the YMCA in Setúbal, Portugal. At the moment I am an activist and have a group of young people that volunteer for different activities”, Maria says.

Maria got to know amazing people within the Roots framework: “All beautiful human beings that I met are so special and have kind hearts. Most of them were already working or studying in peace-building, so I can say surely that I learned a lot not only from the staff and the trainers but also from the participants. And I felt that they all believed in the power of words and thoughts, they were creative, awesome and I enjoyed their company. I accepted and shared a lot with them. For me, the most amazing people are the ones who give all without any expectations. And that room was full of such people.”

For Maria, Roots is a symbol of awareness, responsibility and the “do no harm” approach. “The most important impact that Roots had on me is the way I see life. Now I believe that it’s important to have a reason to live for. I became more a citizen of the world than just a citizen of Portugal. I felt more responsible for others and I believe I can play an important role in positively changing the way people see the world. Roots helped me to understand that we are all humans – having the same rights, the same feelings, same desires. I want to play a role in making others see that”, Maria says.

At this moment Maria continues her involvement into Roots and is engaged with ”World by Word: hiSTORY behind us” international initiative.

The Roots Flagship Is Back: Call For New Cohort of the Peace Work Institute

The Peace Work Institute is a one-year-long scheme requiring commitment of minimum two weeks for residential activities, including online meetings and homework assignments, specifically:

October – November 2021: Online Induction Workshops to the course;
December 3 – 9, 2021: One-week-long residential training session in Tbilisi (Georgia);
January – April 2022: Setting up & implementation of local or online micro (tandem) projects by participants and online monitoring meetings;
May – June 2022: Online Induction Workshops to the Reunion;
July 2022: One-week-long residential training session – Reunion in Berlin (Germany).

The Peace Work Institute (PWI) is a key component of YMCA Europe Roots for Peace programme, with the aim to empower youth workers and opinion leaders in acting for change in their organisations and communities as multipliers of peace culture and movement.

The participants will:

gain life-skills in critical thinking and complex problem-solving;
be empowered and equipped for leadership and social influence;
make friends, relationships and networking across Europe;
be supported to plan and implement follow-up local and tandem micro-projects;

The call will be open until October 1, 2021. The PWI Planning Team will carry out the final selection of the participants, so that those enrolled are notified by October 15, 2021. The criteria of selection are entirely merit-based, regardless of nationality, race, religion and gender.

Endorsement and pledged mentoring support from sending organisations will be highly appreciated.

The Team

The PWI was piloted ten years ago, all the way managed by the Roots staff team – Vardan, Marius, Rezi – now very experienced in creating safe spaces and keeping this signature program’s flag always waving high.

The Roots has an impressive pool of experts who contributed to the PWI content delivery. Amongst them Wolfgang Heinrich and Ankica Dragin being the authors of the , the main t-kit to be the base for the curriculum of this series, directly delivered by the authors.

Since 2021 the PWI has already concluded two series, with 46 alumni from all over Europe. Many of them have reached quality levels in various expertise areas, to be applied within the current scheme delivery and mentorship.

Cost Responsibilities, Fundraising And Subsidies

As a principle, the investment to participate in the PWI program should be the responsibility of the sending organisation or the participant. All who can pay should pay. At the same time, we know this is not possible in all cases and we fundraise to support the costs of the ones who need it.

The fundraising is an ongoing work and always uncertain. Therefore, if you or your organisation believes in this program, we invite you to embark on a journey with us.

Financial support will always be negotiated case by case based on the specific needs of each participant and sending organisation. Participant-by-participant, we will work to find solutions together. YMCA Europe is committed to do its best so that no one will be left out of the program because of the lack of resources.

Application form

For more information please contact us at info[at]ymcaeurope.com