"Transnational Encounters: Gathering of German-Greek Females"
In a significant development, a cross-border youth project aimed at empowering young women has gained attention, with its impact showcased in the state capital of Wiesbaden. This initiative, which involves programmes in East Africa and Central Asia, focuses on leadership, participation, and peacebuilding.
The project, known as "Young Women At The Table" in Kenya's Kwale County and "Bridges of Friendship" in the Fergana Valley (Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan), received backing from diverse sources, including governmental grants, foundations, local and regional partners, and broader funding frameworks like UNDP.
The project's objectives include building confidence, promoting active participation, breaking down stereotypes, and fostering trust across ethnic and gender divides. In Kenya, training young women in budget advocacy, gender-responsive budgeting, and public participation led to the creation of young women's budget memoranda and stronger civic engagement. Meanwhile, Central Asian projects create safe dialogue spaces, develop mediation skills, and promote legal awareness, bolstering inclusion and confidence among young women to participate in governance and community peace processes.
The project's success is evident in its early results. In Kenya, young women trained as budget advocates have influenced local government processes, mobilising wider community participation and securing official support for gender-inclusive budgeting. In the Fergana Valley, these cross-border efforts contribute to peaceful coexistence, reduce local tensions, and support sustainable youth leadership in conflict-sensitive environments.
The culmination of this project was marked by an event in Wiesbaden, where participants presented their self-designed creative works showcasing their ideas for a just society to Dr. Patricia Becher. The exchange and new perspectives gained from these activities were particularly significant for young women across borders. The official event ended with a group photo, signifying the unity and camaraderie forged through this initiative.
This encounter was the result of close cooperation between the Wilhelm-Heinrich-von-Riehl School's support association and the Greek partner organization Filoxenia. The project is part of "Wiesbaden International," an initiative of the state capital to promote international youth and expert encounters. Notably, the project is funded by the EU program Erasmus+, and both partners are committed to themes such as equality, environmental issues, and remembrance work.
The official event included the ceremonial handover of participation certificates, providing recognition for the young participants' efforts and achievements. The tour of the town hall provided insights into its history and significance, offering a memorable conclusion to this cross-border youth project.
The "Young Women At The Table" and "Bridges of Friendship" projects, focusing on education-and-self-development and lifestyle, are part of this extensive cross-border initiative, showcasing their creative works in Wiesbaden and influencing governance and community peace processes in both East Africa and Central Asia. With support from diverse sources, these programmes strive to build confidence, foster trust, and promote active participation among young women, ultimately aiming for a just society.
