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Description
The intervention is necessary in order to address the lack of access to education, culture and professional development opportunities for the underprivileged youth of Ferentari neighbourhood, as well as the lack of information about Roma identity and history of culture, which fosters prejudices and erroneous self-perception. The general objective consists of greater access to culture through art, non-formal education and cultural entrepreneurship for the underprivileged youth from Ferentari, through cultural and bilateral cooperation; SO1 concerns greater skills through non-formal education for 28 underprivileged young adults and for the 4 members of the implementation team who will take part in a cultural management program, 2 of whom will also take part in a job-shadowing program for project management; SO2 - raising the level of information and empowerment about Roma culture through 4 community meetings with experts; SO3 - increased cultural offer in Bucharest through 2 original theatre productions and 21 additional cultural products. The role of the bilateral partnership is the development of underprivileged youth from Ferentari through art, offering the benefits of opening up new perspectives, community collaboration and self-expression.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address the urgent need for increased access to education, culture, and professional development opportunities for disadvantaged youth in Ferentari. Recognizing the social and economic barriers faced by this community, the initiative sought to create pathways for personal and professional growth through targeted cultural and educational programs. Additionally, the project tackled the widespread lack of awareness regarding Roma identity and history, a gap that perpetuates prejudice and reinforces negative self-perception among Roma youth.
The project implemented activities tailored to the needs of Roma youth, fostering self-expression, confidence, and social inclusion. Meetings with successful Roma role models provided inspiration and broadened participants’ perspectives. Creative writing workshops encouraged young people to share personal experiences, strengthening their voice and sense of community. Theatrical performances helped develop communication and performance skills while boosting self-confidence, offering participants a platform to be heard and represented.
The project generated meaningful outcomes, directly benefiting Roma youth and professionals while fostering cultural representation and international collaboration. It created 5.60 new jobs, contributing to economic opportunities within the community. A total of 34 Roma individuals participated in empowerment initiatives designed to enhance their confidence, skills, and cultural engagement.
In the field of contemporary art, the project supported 12 activities specifically focused on Roma culture, promoting visibility and artistic expression. Additionally, six Roma individuals received workplace training, equipping them with valuable professional skills to support their career development.
Summary of bilateral results
The bilateral cooperation enriched the project through a series of creative workshops that led to the production of unique art installations, developed in collaboration with renowned Norwegian artist Lise Wulff. Committed to the Do No Harm principle, Wulff brought her expertise in sustainable artistic practices, inspiring participants to experiment with new forms of expression while staying connected to their cultural heritage. This partnership not only resulted in impactful artistic works but also strengthened professional ties between Romanian and Norwegian artists, creating a foundation for future cultural collaboration.