There are projects that have a slogan and there are those that live up to it… And recently completed activity by YMCA Georgia certainly belonged to the latter ones – bringing together young people of Georgian, Armenian and Azerbaijani ethnic origin and immersing them into activities that promote mutual understanding, tolerance, cooperation and empathy.

Even if being citizens of one country – the differences are truly there, differences that often transform into mistrust, alienation and isolation; but when differences serve as part of a common fabric that becomes only richer and more beautiful with every color – then you end up with a mosaic.. A mosaic of diversity!

That’s exactly what we recently witnessed at YMCA Georgia “Camp Orange”, where 35 young people spent a week full of fellowship, learning, sharing and fun! Getting inspired by conviction that only together they can build a society where each member belongs and has equal rights, but also bears equal responsibilities.

And all of it facilitated by YMCA Europe Generation Next project scholarship holders – once participants of the similar project, it was them that took charge and made sure that each participant felt safe, welcome and accomplished. Their Roots?! Truly reflecting the background of participants and perhaps that was the key of the success – leading by example and performance.

The mosaic does not end there, though.. The project funded by YMCA of the USA; implemented by YMCA Georgia in partnership with YMCA Europe Generation Project and inspired by YMCA Europe Roots for Peace… A vivid manifest of what the project and the entire YMCA family stand for!