Completion of the “ChangeMakers: Youth Voices for Dialogue and Community Engagement” Training in Nablus to Promote Youth Participation in Community Dialogue

Witness Center for Citizen Rights and Social Development completed the training of the “ChangeMakers: Youth Voices for Dialogue and Community Engagement” project, funded by the Government of Canada, with the participation of young people from Nablus Governorate. The training is part of a series of activities targeting Generation Z youth in the governorates of Nablus, Qalqilya, and Tulkarm.

The project targets 90 young women and men, with a particular focus on youth from marginalized groups. It aims to develop their skills in civic engagement, leadership, dialogue, psychosocial resilience, and inclusive community participation.

The training was conducted over three days and covered a range of topics. On the final day, journalist Firas Al-Sayfi delivered a training session on digital literacy, digital citizenship, and misinformation. The session covered identifying misinformation and harmful narratives, as well as the basics of verifying information and sources.

Dr. Qusay Hamed delivered a two-day training covering civic engagement and active citizenship, local governance, human rights, constructive dialogue, inclusive community participation, and the role of youth in local issues and decision-making. The training focused on helping participants understand their rights and responsibilities as citizens, learn about the roles of local authorities and mechanisms for participation and accountability, and develop skills in listening, communication, managing differences, and building trust. It also encouraged youth to identify the needs of their communities and transform them into ideas and initiatives led by the young participants themselves.

On the first day, psychologist Suha Al-Qadi delivered a session on self-care, psychological well-being, and resilience. Nimalah Khroufa, a self-care and psychological well-being trainer and trauma-informed dialogue facilitator, also delivered a session addressing various aspects of personal development and promoting psychological balance, while supporting young people in coping with challenges and stress.

The final day also featured Palestinian photojournalist Alaa Badarna as a guest speaker. He spoke with the youth about his experience in journalism and the challenges he has faced, emphasizing the importance of passing knowledge and experience on to younger generations, particularly in light of the circumstances facing Palestinian society.

The project seeks to provide safe spaces for dialogue and cooperation between youth and decision-makers, and to translate the knowledge and skills gained into practical action through youth-led initiatives, digital products, and media stories. These efforts aim to strengthen youth participation in local issues and contribute to promoting dialogue and social cohesion