Desert Bloom Participates in Youth Exchange on Emotional Intelligence in Samobor, Croatia

From January 15 to 24, 2025, Desert Bloom joined "Emotions in Action: EQ for Modern Life," a youth exchange program hosted by Udruga Impress in Croatia. Co-funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ program, the initiative brought together over 30 young people to explore the crucial link between emotional intelligence and navigating the digital world.

The program delved into the complexities of online experiences and their impact on emotional well-being, equipping participants with tools to thrive in an increasingly digitalized society. Participants engaged in interactive workshops and discussions covering:

• Understanding Emotional Intelligence: Exploring its components and their impact on personal and social life.
• Online Behavior & Social Media: Analyzing online behavior, examining the relationship between young people and social networks, and addressing challenges related to social media use.
• Mental Health & Digital Wellness: Focusing on mental health and well-being in the digital age, promoting digital wellness strategies, and finding a healthy balance in online interactions.

Through these sessions, participants developed critical thinking and media literacy skills, fostering emotional resilience and a mindful approach to online interactions.

Desert Bloom, dedicated to youth empowerment and intercultural understanding, actively contributed to the exchange, aligning with its mission to support personal growth and emotional wellness. This impactful program underscores the vital role of emotional intelligence in the digital era, inspiring participants to become more mindful, empathetic, and self-aware in their online and offline lives.

Desert Bloom actively participated in the "Equality in Networking" training course held in Badalona and hosted by Asociación La Rotllana. This course brought together 25 youth workers from 8 European and South Mediterranean countries. The primary focus of the training was to enhance participants' practical skills in building partnerships and designing as well as managing international projects, utilizing non-formal and informal education methods.

Promoting a culture of peer-learning, the training provided a platform for participants to exchange valuable insights and reflect on their experiences. The program incorporated experiential learning elements, including visits to like-minded organizations and the University of Barcelona, enriching the overall training experience.

Below is feedback from Desert Bloom participant:

Attending the training was a truly enriching experience, unveiling the significance of fostering mutually beneficial partnerships and co-creating international projects in multicultural settings.

Recognizing the pivotal role of team-building games cannot be overstated. These activities not only nurture collaboration, communication, and trust among team members but also serve as delightful tools to break the ice and cultivate robust relationships. Whether through a trust fall or a team scavenger hunt, these games contribute to heightened morale and increased productivity.

Exploring other organizations during the visits, particularly the University of Barcelona, was a highlight. The university stands as a prestigious institution renowned for its diverse academic programs, extensive research, and unwavering commitment to innovation. Its notable connection to sports includes engaging sports teams and programs that provide students with opportunities for participation and competition against other institutions. This involvement fosters physical fitness, teamwork, and discipline, ensuring students enjoy a well-rounded experience that balances academics with healthy competition.

The University of Barcelona's dedication to diversity and inclusivity is evident in its robust support for the immigrant community. Striving to create an inclusive environment, the university offers tailored resources and services to assist immigrant students in adapting and thriving academically. This approach underscores the institution's appreciation for the unique contributions of immigrant students to the university community.

The project is financed by the Erasmus+ group for workers and youth workers.

erasmus+ @cjamarante @sppmd @larotllana @ignetwork @associazioneinfirmagiovani @piya @ambitia

Participation and Contribution to the “To Gather” Seminar in Altamura, Italy (27 November – 2 December 2024)

The President & Founder of Desert Bloom, Mamoun Khreisat,  had the privilege of participating in the To Gather Seminar, hosted by the Link APS Association in Altamura, Italy. This Partnership Development Activity brought together organizations from across Europe and the Middle East to share innovative practices and methodologies aimed at enhancing youth participation and fostering social inclusion.

The seminar focused on three key areas:

• Strategies for Social Transformation: Methods to involve youth with fewer opportunities in impactful social projects.
• Facilitation Techniques: Effective tools and methods for engaging youth in activities.
• Future Collaborations: Ideas and opportunities for building partnerships.

During the seminar, Mr. Mamoun led a session introducing “To Gather for Creativity”, an art-based tool he developed to enhance young people’s adaptability, teamwork, and creativity skills. This interactive session provided participants with insights into using art as a medium to empower youth and equip them for dynamic real-life challenges.

Additionally, he shared one of Desert Bloom's successful practices in youth engagement by assigning young people to leadership positions and actively involving them in decision-making processes. This approach not only builds their confidence but also ensures meaningful participation, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.

The To Gather Seminar was an enriching experience, offering a platform to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships, and explore innovative approaches to youth empowerment and social transformation.

The seminar was funded by European Union under Erasmus plus program.

PerPop: Perspectives of Populism, Youth Exchange, 13-21 November 2024, Marrakech, Morocco

Desert Bloom proudly participated in PerPop: Perspectives of Populism, a youth exchange led by CoconutWork, France. This impactful initiative aimed to combat the rise of populism by empowering young people to become active and informed citizens. The program focused on the following key areas:

1. Promoting inclusive narratives challenge populist stereotypes and foster understanding.
2. Cultivating critical thinking encouraging fact-checking and media literacy.
3. Analyzing populist trends examining the manifestations of populism across different countries.
4. Countering populist rhetoric.
5. Leading digital campaigns to address prevalent populist narratives, focusing on migration, gender equality, and intercultural dialogue.

This project, co-funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ Program, created a platform for youth to exchange ideas and develop innovative solutions to pressing global challenges.

Reflections from Desert Bloom Participants

"Participating in PerPop was a transformative experience that empowered us to engage in meaningful discussions on countering populism and promoting democratic values. It inspired us to drive positive change in our communities."

"We delved into critical topics such as the dangers of fake news and the impact of echo chambers on society. These discussions pushed us to think critically and work collaboratively on solutions to these urgent issues."

"As the Jordanian team, we were honored to share our perspectives and learn from a diverse and passionate group. Together, we explored innovative strategies, forged lifelong connections, and strengthened our commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable future."

A heartfelt thank you to the organizers, facilitators, and participants for making this an unforgettable and impactful experience!

#DesertBloom.jo #TeamJordan #ErasmusPlus #YouthEmpowerment #CollaborationForChange #mena.uri

Desert Bloom recently hosted a pivotal multiplier event to disseminate and amplify the insights and outcomes of the "ARABLE" project in Jordan. The event brought together policymakers, industry experts, and young entrepreneurs to discuss strategies for empowering disabled youth in agriculture. Key Highlights:

• Empowering Young Entrepreneurs: Equipped participants with skills to launch inclusive agricultural ventures.

• Promoting Inclusivity: Emphasized the importance of equal opportunities for disabled youth. • Knowledge Sharing: Facilitated the exchange of best practices and experiences.

• Leveraging Technology: Explored the use of digital tools for accessible training.

• Building a Supportive Community: Fostered collaboration among stakeholders.

Looking Ahead: Desert Bloom is committed to continuing the ARABLE project by:

• Expanding capacity-building initiatives

• Building partnerships and collaborations

• Developing innovative training programs

• Advocating for inclusive policies

Desert Bloom CC participated in “Peace Ambassadors” Youth Exchange, 24-31 October 2024, Poland

The Peace Ambassadors Youth Exchange, held in Murzasichle, Poland, from October 24th to 31st, 2024, brought together 30 enthusiastic young people (aged 13-17) and 6 dedicated team leaders (over 18) from Poland, Romania, Latvia, Ukraine, Serbia, and Jordan. Hosted by EUROMED EVE POLSKA and co-funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ Program, this initiative aimed to foster a culture of peace and understanding among young people.

Through engaging workshops, cultural activities, and scenic excursions, participants delved into topics such as self-awareness, communication, and collaboration. Cultural nights showcased the unique traditions, music, and cuisine of each participating country, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation.

The project extended beyond the classroom, offering opportunities for exploration and connection. Participants embarked on scenic hikes, admiring breathtaking lakes and local landmarks, instilling values like patience and resilience. The cultural exchange was a highlight, with participants sharing stories, gifts, and laughter.

The Peace Ambassadors project left a lasting impact on all involved. Participants returned home with cherished memories, enhanced communication skills, and a renewed commitment to promoting peace and understanding in their communities. As one participant expressed, "This was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life."

Reflections from Desert Bloom Participants:

• Maya Khrais: "The project was a truly transformative experience, allowing me to form lifelong friendships and develop essential skills."
• Lara: "The project helped me build many friendships and develop communication and critical thinking skills."
• Qusai Shehadeh: "Initially apprehensive, I quickly embraced the journey and developed valuable communication skills."
• Hamza: "The program was extraordinary, with engaging workshops, fascinating cultural nights, and incredible people."

http://youtu.be/z1yD-NHu_uU Project video:

https://youtu.be/z1yD-NHu_uU

Speak Up! Training Course, September 11-17, 2024, Carei, Romania

The Speak Up Training Course was a direct response to the expressed desire among youth workers to enhance their public speaking skills and foster personal and professional growth. Organized by the Beyond Association-Romania, the training brought together 30 participants from eight countries: Portugal, Hungary, Romania, Spain, Jordan, Italy, Turkey, and Bulgaria.

The course delved into key topics such as anxiety management, resilience building, and effective communication strategies. Participants learned to recognize and manage their emotions, transforming anxiety into a positive force for personal growth. Additionally, the training explored Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques, providing valuable insights into enhancing communication and interpersonal skills.

Beyond the personal development aspects, the training offered participants the opportunity to explore the local municipality of Carei, gaining insights into its history, culture, and unique identity.

This project was co-financed by the European Union and served as a valuable platform for fostering international collaboration and empowering youth workers to become effective communicators and agents of change.

Feedback from Desert Bloom's Participants

Amr Aloury: "The Speak Up training course covered essential topics such as anxiety management, neural-linguistic programming, various communication methods, and interactive public speaking sessions. The course was well-structured, with a 9-hour daily schedule that included breaks and meals. We were also treated to a delightful Romanian dinner hosted by Delia and her mother. The cultural night was a highlight, allowing us to share and experience different cultures."

Raneem Ali: "The training was an enriching journey that focused on the crucial skills of speaking up and public speaking. It covered a wide range of topics, including managing anxiety, understanding mental health, building resilience, and mastering various forms of communication. The trainers, Teo and Delia, were exceptional, providing practical knowledge and actionable strategies. We also extend our gratitude to Adrian for his valuable contributions. The training was not only educational but also a wonderful opportunity to connect with new people and exchange ideas."

Overall, the Speak Up Training Course was a tremendous success, equipping me with valuable skills and inspired me to apply their learnings in my personal and professional lives.

Imagine a world where sport is a universal language, uniting people from all walks of life. That's exactly what the "Sport for Inclusion" Youth Exchange in Ohrid, North Macedonia, aimed to achieve. From August 24-31, 2024, approximately 30 young participants aged 14-17 from North Macedonia, Spain, and Jordan came together to explore the power of sport as a catalyst for inclusion and understanding.

The exchange, which was funded by the EU's programme's Erasmus Plus, was more than just a sports camp. It was a transformative experience that challenged stereotypes, fostered intercultural dialogue, and inspired participants to become agents of change. Through a variety of activities, including traditional games, sports, and collaborative projects, the young people shared their unique cultures and perspectives.

One of the highlights of the exchange was the creation of a new game designed to be inclusive of people from different backgrounds and abilities. Working together, the participants brought their creativity and ingenuity to life, designing a game that was both fun and accessible.

Beyond the sports and games, the exchange also provided opportunities for participants to engage with the local community and learn about different cultures. They visited historical sites, explored the stunning landscapes of Lake Ohrid, and volunteered their time to support local initiatives.

The "Sport for Inclusion" Youth Exchange was designed to achieve several key objectives:

• Empower young participants by inspiring them to transform their ideas into meaningful actions, driving positive change within their communities.
• Foster intercultural understanding by promoting respect, tolerance, and empathy among participants from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds.
• Break down stereotypes by challenging preconceived notions and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
• Promote active citizenship by encouraging participants to engage with their communities and contribute to the well-being of others.
• Support personal growth by helping participants discover their passions and explore potential career paths aligned with their interests.

As Rayan, a participant from Jordan, shared: "This exchange has opened my eyes to the incredible power of sport to unite people and break down barriers. It's a language that everyone can understand and appreciate. I'm inspired to continue advocating for inclusion in sports and to use my own experiences to make a difference in my community. I was also struck by the many similarities between Jordanian and European cultures. Seeing a mosque standing next to a church in Macedonia highlighted the importance of peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians."

The "Sport for Inclusion" Youth Exchange was a resounding success, demonstrating the transformative potential of sports and the importance of fostering intercultural understanding. By bringing together young people from different countries and backgrounds, the exchange created a lasting legacy of friendship, collaboration, and a shared commitment to building a more inclusive world.

"Health is Your Wealth" Youth Exchange, 4-13 August 2024, Cēsis, Latvia

The "Health is Your Wealth" Youth Exchange brought together 25 teenagers from Latvia, Jordan, Ukraine, Lithuania, Poland, and Hungary to raise awareness about the dangers of addiction and promote healthier lifestyles. Hosted by the Latvian Association for Youth Activists in Cēsis, Latvia, this initiative was co-funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ program.

Feedback from Desert Bloom’s participants:

"Our participation in this project was truly transformative, enriching our lives in many ways. By focusing on both physical and mental well-being, we embraced a more holistic approach to health, addressing harmful habits and adopting healthier lifestyle choices.

Through interactive workshops and collaborative activities, we enhanced our interpersonal skills and discovered the importance of teamwork. Moreover, we gained a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures, expanding our perspectives through meaningful cross-cultural exchanges. We are deeply grateful to Desert Bloom for providing us with this life-changing opportunity."

Desert Bloom participated in EcoChangemakers2 Training Course Held in Cluj Napoca, Romania, from August 1-8, 2024

From August 1–8, 2024, the city of Cluj Napoca, Romania, hosted the EcoChangemakers2 Training Course, an international initiative aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and collaboration among young leaders from around the world. Participants from Turkey, Jordan, Romania, Belarus, Greece, and Germany came together to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and develop innovative solutions to global environmental challenges.

The project is co-financed by the European Union and organized by kukukultur, Germany and hosted by Asociatia Beyond, Romania

Program Objectives
The EcoChangemaker Program sought to:

• Deepen participants' understanding of pressing environmental issues.
• Facilitate the exchange of sustainable practices across different countries.
• Encourage the development of collaborative, cross-border environmental projects.
• Strengthen cultural and professional ties among young leaders.

Key Activities
Throughout the week-long training course, participants engaged in a range of activities designed to inspire collaboration and learning:

• Workshops: Interactive sessions covered critical topics such as renewable energy and sustainable agriculture, providing participants with practical knowledge to apply in their home countries.
• Field Visits: Visits to local eco-friendly businesses and sustainability projects offered participants hands-on experience with real-world applications of sustainable practices.
• Group Discussions: Facilitated dialogues allowed participants to explore global environmental issues, propose innovative solutions, and share perspectives on sustainability.
• Collaborative Projects: International teams worked together to design and launch outreach projects aimed at raising environmental awareness. These included educational materials such as social media campaigns and videos, which were tailored to be scalable and adaptable to local contexts.

Program Outcomes
The EcoChangemakers2 Training Course yielded several important outcomes:

• Knowledge Exchange: Participants gained new insights into environmental sustainability, learning both from the program's content and from each other’s diverse experiences.
• Networking: Strong networks were formed, creating a community of young leaders committed to advancing environmental causes across multiple countries.
• Cultural Exchange: The program also fostered mutual understanding and respect through cultural exchange, further enhancing collaboration among participants from diverse backgrounds.

Recommendations for Future Programs
To enhance the effectiveness of future dissemination efforts, the following recommendations were made:

• Tailored Messaging: Develop culturally relevant messaging strategies to ensure greater impact in diverse contexts.
• Resource Support: Provide additional resources, such as funding, technology, and mentorship, to support participants in implementing their dissemination projects.

Valuable Lessons for Desert Bloom Representatives
The participation of Desert Bloom in the EcoChangemakers2 Project provided several key takeaways:

• Environmental Education: Innovative methods of environmental education experienced in Romania could be adapted for Jordanian schools and communities.
• Raising Awareness: Experiences from the program can be leveraged to raise awareness in Jordan about global environmental issues and the need for international cooperation.
• Sustainable Practices: Exposure to sustainable living practices in Romania, such as organic farming, can inspire similar initiatives in Jordan.
• Resource Management: Insights into Romania’s natural resource management, particularly in water conservation, could inform better resource practices in Jordan.

Conclusion
The EcoChangemakers2 Program in Romania was a resounding success, achieving its goals of promoting environmental awareness, fostering collaboration, and encouraging cultural exchange. The diverse group of participants from Turkey, Jordan, Romania, Belarus, Greece, and Germany created a vibrant learning environment. The collaborative projects initiated during the program have the potential to generate significant environmental impact in the participating countries.

Eco-friendly Sport Workshop

Desert Bloom hosted the Eco-friendly Sport Workshop in Amman and Balqa from July 1-2, 2024. The workshop, which is part of Part of the "Sports 4 Healthy Life" Project, was attended by 30 participants from government institutions, academia, civil society, subject matter experts, and youth. It covered key environmental issues and mitigation strategies. In the first half, the workshop focused on Earth-inspired concepts such as Earth-based feminism and Eco-tourism, water challenges and strategies in Jordan, solid waste management in Jordan, as well as global challenges like water scarcity and global warming.

The second part of the workshop was dedicated to practical techniques and strategies to mitigate and adapt to various environmental challenges. Participants brainstormed innovative ideas for applying Zero-waste principles (the 5 R’s of Conservation: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, and Recycle). They also learned about eco-friendly sports and highlighted sports that best protect our environment. Finally, participants calculated their ecological footprints and discussed ways to minimize their individual environmental impacts.

The second day was dedicated to field visits in Balqa Governorate, including the College of Agriculture Technology at Al-Balqa' Applied University (BAU) in Salt, the Albalqa Innovation Institute in Bayyudah, Mysara Forest, the Ecological Park in As-Subayhi, and the old city of Salt (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). The workshop is part of the "Sports for Healthy Life" project, supported by the European Commission's Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), and coordinated by Sorgun Youth Association within the framework of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) Volunteer Teams in High Priority Areas Programme.

Sport for Healthy Life project uses sports as a platform to empower young people facing adversity. It aims to: • Help young people identify their strengths and build self-confidence to overcome challenges.

• Broaden their perspectives by exposing them to new experiences and ideas, opening doors to future possibilities.
• Foster a belief in positive change, encouraging a hopeful outlook for the future.
• Enhance life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, which are valuable in all aspects of life.

Exciting News from the ARABLE Project! EnABLE Youth” Training- Morocco, 12-15 May 2024

The ARABLE project has reached a significant milestone with the successful “EnABLE Youth” training event held in the beautiful city of Fes, Morocco. The training was host by the partner organization, EURO-MED EVE MOROC, accommodated 30 dedicated youth workers from the 10 member organizations of the ARABLE consortium. This empowering event focused on empowering youth, fostering inclusivity, and driving sustainable change through equipping disabled youth with valuable entrepreneurship skills in sustainable agriculture. Moreover, the “EnABLE Youth” training provided a remarkable opportunity for participants to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and foster a sense of community. Together, we are paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future in agriculture.

The training continue with ARABLE project endeavors to tackle the obstacles faced by individuals with disabilities, particularly focusing on youth unemployment, discriminatory practices, and environmental sustainability within the agricultural domain. Geared towards empowering young people to become ambassadors for future societies, the project prioritizes environmental conservation, professional opportunities, and inclusive participation. Recognizing the burgeoning potential of the agricultural sector and the imperative of youth engagement, ARABLE aligns with the European Commission’s concerns regarding climate change while aiming to empower disabled youths in rural settings. 

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to empower and inspire through the ARABLE project!

https://youtu.be/x67NMtinWs8