Bridging Inclusion and Integration Gaps: The Journey of BIG Project V.I
- YESOLP Official
- Feb 23
- 3 min read
The Bridging Inclusion and Integration Gaps (BIG Project) was implemented by YESOLP to strengthen inclusion, social cohesion, and active citizenship among young people in Cyprus.
Over the course of one year, the project brought together local youth, migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and young parents to learn, connect, and grow through solidarity-based, non-formal education activities.
The BIG Project was designed as a response to the real and lived challenges faced by young people with fewer opportunities, particularly those from migrant and refugee backgrounds. These challenges include social exclusion, limited access to the labor market, discrimination, language barriers, and isolation. At the same time, the project aimed to create meaningful spaces for dialogue and cooperation between local and migrant youth, fostering empathy, mutual understanding, and a sense of community belonging.
Project Activities and Implementation
Throughout the project, a total of 6 workshops and learning activities were implemented, combining empowerment, skills development, mental health support, and civic engagement. The activities followed a participatory and inclusive approach, using non-formal education methods that encouraged active involvement, peer learning, and reflection.
Key activities included:
Survey targeting Cypriot Nationals, EU Nationals and Non-EU Nationals at the beginning of the project to identify needs and priorities
3 focus groups in 3 different cities bringing together local and migrant youth to identify needs and priorities
Empowerment workshops focusing on self-confidence, leadership, and active citizenship
Skills-based workshops on entrepreneurship, digital literacy, and navigating the labour market, including CV writing and job search strategies
Awareness-raising activities addressing the challenges faced by young migrants in Cyprus
Multicultural Sharing Kitchen discovering traditions and cuisines from many corners around the world
A final public event and exhibition on multiculturalism, open to the wider community
All activities were designed to be accessible and responsive to participants’ realities. Translation support was provided when needed, and strong emphasis was placed on creating safe spaces where participants could express themselves freely, regardless of background or status.
Participants and Beneficiaries
The BIG Project directly engaged more than 100 young people across all workshops and activities. Participants included local youth, refugees, asylum seekers, migrants, and young parents, many of whom were experiencing economic, social, or cultural barriers to participation.
In addition, more than 30 people attended the final conference, including beneficiaries, youth workers, representatives of civil society organisations, and members of the wider public. The project team itself consisted largely of individuals with lived experience of migration, displacement, and single parenthood, making them not only implementers but also beneficiaries of the learning and empowerment process.
A total of 27 participants received Youthpass certificates, formally recognising the competences and learning outcomes gained through their participation.
Reflections and Impact
Feedback collected throughout the project highlights significant personal and social impact. Participants reported increased self-confidence, improved communication and digital skills, better understanding of the Cypriot labour market, and a stronger sense of belonging to their community. Many young migrants expressed feeling more visible, heard, and empowered, while local participants reported increased awareness of inclusion, diversity, and social justice issues.
Beyond individual impact, BIG Project contributed to building bridges between communities. By creating shared spaces for learning and dialogue, the project challenged stereotypes, reduced prejudice, and promoted solidarity in practice rather than theory.
Sustainability and Long-Term Impact
To ensure that the impact of BIG Project v.1 continues beyond its official duration, several sustainability measures were put in place. A community WhatsApp group with over 100 members remains active, serving as a space for ongoing communication, peer support, and information sharing. The final project video and social media content continue to raise awareness and reach new audiences. BIG PROJECT FINAL VIDEO.
This article itself serves as a long-term resource, documenting the full project journey, key outcomes, and lessons learned. It is intended to support youth workers, organisations, and stakeholders interested in developing inclusive, solidarity-based youth initiatives.
Closing Thoughts
BIG Project demonstrated that when young people are given safe, inclusive, and empowering spaces, they are ready to engage, lead, and support one another. The project stands as a concrete example of how solidarity, inclusion, and active citizenship can be translated into real action at the community level.
While BIG Project v.i has formally concluded, the relationships, skills, and community built through it continue to grow.
The strong impact and learning outcomes of the project led to the approval of funding for BIG Project v.II, ensuring the continuation and expansion of its activities. This next phase builds directly on the foundations of V.I., reinforcing the belief that inclusive, solidarity-based youth work is not only necessary but truly transformative.
YESOLP: Youth Empowerment on Society & Life Pursuit.
Comments