BIG PROJECT:
BRIDGING INCLUSION & INTEGRATION GAPS

The Bridging Inclusion and Integration Gaps (BIG PROJECT) is a project funded by the European Solidarity Corps and coordinated by IDEP-Foundation for the Management of European Lifelong Learning Programmes (The Cyprus National Agency)

The BIG PROJECT aims to empower both local and migrant youths in Cyprus by equipping them with the essential tools and knowledge to become active citizens who contribute positively to their communities. Our goal is to cultivate a sense of inclusion, cohesion, multiculturalism, and active citizenship among local youths and documented migrants, including recognized refugees, beneficiaries of subsidiary protection, students, asylum seekers, and marginalized individuals.

BIG PROJECT

BIG PROJECT OBJECTIVES

Establish Inclusion Channels: Facilitate dialogue and collaboration between groups

Empower migrants as Role models: Develop leadership and advocacy skills

Provide knowledge and training: Equip participants with employability and entrepreneurial skills

Challenge Stereotypes: Create awareness campaigns to build empathy and understanding.

Foster Youth Engagement: Promote active citizenship and community participation

Focus Group Session

BIG PROJECT TARGET, DURATION, AND EXPECTED OUTCOMES

Target Group

The BIG project targets:

Young migrants (18–30), including refugees, asylum seekers, and international students.
Local Cypriot youths to promote cultural exchange and reduce stereotypes.

Duration

The BIG project commences on the 6th of January, 2025, to the 5th of January, 2026.

Project Outcomes

Short-term Goals

Increased confidence, skills, and knowledge for migrants
Improved understanding and empathy among locals.

Long-term Goals

Empowered role models and advocated
Stronger community ties and social cohesion
Sustainable networks promoting inclusion

Big Project Final Conference

Acquire - Inspire - Grow.

Acquire - Inspire - Grow. Skill building Workshop

Digital Literacy Workshop

Tech Up & Stand Out: Digital Skills That Hire Whether you're job hunting, already working, or just starting your digital journey, this workshop is for you Join YESOLP for an all-inclusive online event designed to empower both migrant and local youth in Cyprus with the digital skills that matter most in today’s labor market. From basic tech know-how to workplace readiness, we’re here to help you stand out and succeed. 📅 Date: 28th September 2025 🕕 Time: 6:00 PM (Cyprus local time)

Unlocking the Challenges Young Migrants Face in Cyprus

Join us for a powerful and eye-opening seminar that brings together migrant leaders, youth advocates, and legal experts to explore the real-life barriers young migrants face—including legal hurdles, discrimination, and social isolation. 🎤 Hear from inspiring guest speakers 🤝 Connect with changemakers 💬 Engage in meaningful dialogue 🌱 Help build a more inclusive futuree 📅 Date: Sunday, 31st August 2025 at 6PM 📍 Venue: Online via ZOOM 🎟 FREE

Common Ground Cafe

Common Ground Café: Different Voices, one vibe and shared Values. A special gathering where stories, cultures, and voices come together in harmony. 📍 EPILOGI & Euro-Arab Youth Music Center 🗓️ Sunday, 27 July 2025 ⏰ 4:00 PM Expect an atmosphere rich with: 🌍 Authentic conversations that stir the soul 🎶 Diverse voices and vibrant cultures 💫 Beautifully unexpected connections ❤️ Curiosity, warmth, and the joy of sharing 🎒 Bring your story. Your culture. Your curiosity.

Nicosia Multicultural Event

On the 22nd of June, YESOLP hosted a vibrant multicultural event under the framework of the Big Project, a European Solidarity Corps initiative. The gathering brought together participants from Cyprus and across the globe to celebrate diversity through a dynamic blend of cuisine, culture, and community. 🌍✨ From flavorful dishes to heartfelt cultural exchanges, the event came alive with traditional music and dance that told stories beyond words.

Empowerment & Orientation in Larnaca Workshop (Facebook Post)

Youth Empowerment Workshop in Larnaca On Saturday, June 14th, the YESOLP team hosted an engaging orientation and empowerment workshop in the city of Larnaca. As part of THE BIG PROJECT, a European Solidarity Corps initiative, the workshop aimed to combat misinformation and disinformation among migrants, including asylum seekers and refugees. Participants received valuable knowledge and resources to support their integration journey in Cyprus.

Focus Group on Integration and Inclusion.

Focus Group on Integration and Inclusion. On the 12th of April, we had an honest and sincere conversation with individuals in Nicosia based on the BIG PROJECT goals and target. The BIG Project is on and going and we have a lot in-store in the days ahead . Thanks to the team, the participants who graced our Focus Group session.