The PHOENIX project in Spain brought together young people from across the Euro-Mediterranean region to explore gender awareness, empowerment, and intercultural dialogue. Each participant returned with a story shaped by the environment, the people, and the deep conversations that took place in Rascafría. Among them were Duha, Omar, Layan, Mustafa, and Natheer, each carrying a different reflection of growth, identity, and transformation.
Duha
For Duha, the project became a journey inward. She described PHOENIX as a space where she was finally able to pause, reflect, and observe herself from a new perspective. The meaningful discussions on gender, equality, and culture helped her recognize how powerful youth voices can be when they meet in an open, safe space. Duha returned with renewed clarity, self-awareness, and a stronger belief in the importance of storytelling and honest dialogue.
Omar
Omar shared that the project challenged him intellectually and emotionally. Listening to stories from participants across different countries helped him realize how interconnected gender issues truly are. He highlighted how the training reshaped his understanding of empathy—teaching him to listen not only to respond but to understand. Omar came back feeling more responsible, more engaged, and more determined to advocate for equity within his community.
Layan
For Layan, the connection between nature and learning was the most powerful aspect of the project. The quiet mountains, shared meals, and deep conversations created a rhythm that allowed her to reconnect with herself. She reflected on how the project strengthened her sense of identity and gave her the courage to express her thoughts without hesitation. Layan left Spain feeling inspired, empowered, and deeply grateful for the friendships she built along the way.
Mustafa
Mustafa’s experience was filled with personal discovery and cross-cultural exchange. He described the project as a space that encouraged curiosity—where every conversation opened a new window into understanding gender, society, and youth leadership. For him, the hands-on activities and collaborative workshops helped him gain confidence in stepping up, speaking out, and sharing his ideas. Mustafa returned with a wider worldview and a stronger commitment to creating positive impact through youth work.
Natheer
Natheer shared that PHOENIX allowed him to break out of his comfort zone. The discussions challenged him, the tasks pushed him, and the environment encouraged him to trust the learning process. What stood out the most for him was the diversity of the participants—how people from different cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs could come together, disagree respectfully, and still grow together. Natheer returned feeling more open-minded, more grounded, and more aware of how vital youth engagement is in shaping equitable communities.
Together, the experiences of Duha, Omar, Layan, Mustafa, and Natheer reflect the true spirit of the PHOENIX project—a space where young people grow, connect, and challenge themselves to see the world through a more empathetic and equitable lens. Each participant returned home carrying not just memories, but a renewed commitment to creating positive change within their communities and beyond.
The consortium is comprised of: LUNARIA APS – Rome, Italy, ASOCIACION OTRA ESCUELA – Madrid, Spain, AGDZ VOLUNTEERS WITHOUT BORDERS (AGDZ) – Agdz Center, Morocco, JORDAN YOUTH INNOVATION FORUM SOCIETY (JYIF) – Amman, Jordan.
