By Gal Rachman | Country Director, Germany
"I did not know that there are other people here in Berlin, who are like me and share the same experiences, thoughts and beliefs."
"Today I learned a lot about myself and want to thank IsraAID for creating this opportunity, and especially to all of you who also came. You are all so great, and together we can be powerful!"
"We cannot change the past and what we have experienced, but we can change our future together!"
Last month, IsraAID launched its new Refugee Leadership Program in Berlin, called Kompass. This initiative aims to train and facilitate a group of empowered, motivated refugees in Germany, from all nationalities and religions, who will together lead social and community-building activities, and encourage thousands of other new refugee arrivals to connect with the wider German population.
Following months of recruitment and trust-building activities, the IsraAID team in Germany facilitated the first group meeting. The group included 18 male and female refugees, from ages 14 to 45 years old, from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Eritrea and Somalia, and was coordinated by two of IsraAID's psycho-social and mental health professionals. The first session focused on introductions and on presenting the program.
The participants drew their 'personal shields', which included their life motto, their skills, and individual 'super-powers'. The group was encouraged to use any words, colours and forms to express themselves. After a communal lunch, everyone was asked to find a partner, who they didn't know well, and present their shield to one another. Later, each person presented his/her partner’s shield to the whole group!
The first session was a real success. The participants arrived on time, were full of energy, and open to all the ideas and tasks presented. Through the group-work, new connections were built, and a peer network started to develop - the participants encouraged, supported and motivated each other. Identifying one’s superpower was very difficult for some participants but getting to know people with similar experiences and difficulties, created a powerful feeling of belonging and hope.
We are all looking forward to our next meeting! More updates to follow!
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