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Description
Cultural Heroes project aims to increase the employment of Roma people, direct beneficiaries of the project, by training 5 people in the workplace in production activities of a short animated film, with a theme inspired by the Roma culture, accompanied by the production of a children''s book associated with the film. The project aims to encourage young Roma people to continue their studies and to stimulate the employment of Roma people in activities in the film industry. The project will also include the organization of cultural discussions and small workshops with traditional Roma craftsmen, aimed to empower over 40 Roma people, increase their social involvement, social acceptance and reduce discrimination against members of the Roma community, while promoting Roma culture among the general public in Romania and Iceland and encouraging the continuation and capitalization of Roma crafts.
Summary of project results
The Cultural Heroes project sought to address the low employment rate among individuals of Roma ethnicity by providing workplace training for six Roma participants in the production of a short animated film inspired by Roma culture. The project also included the creation of a children''s book associated with the film.
Additionally, the project aimed to encourage young Roma to continue their education and to promote the employment of Roma individuals in the film industry. This approach not only supported the direct beneficiaries of the project but also benefited future employers and society as a whole, making them indirect beneficiaries by fostering inclusivity and diversity in cultural and professional fields.
The project involved documenting Roma culture to create a children''s animated film and accompanying book. It resulted in the production of an animated short film and a children''s book, both of which were distributed in Romania and Iceland. Additionally, the project supported 11 contemporary art activities focused on Roma culture and provided on-the-job training for six Roma individuals, equipping them with practical skills in film production and cultural projects.
The project promoted Roma culture through the creation of a children''s book and film, accompanied by discussions led by a consultant on Roma culture and history, as well as a Roma craftsman. These activities fostered a connection between Roma and non-Roma communities, increasing public awareness and understanding while reducing discrimination and encouraging acceptance of Roma people within broader society.
For Roma adults participating in the project''s events, an evaluation was conducted using a 12-item questionnaire administered before and after the events to measure the impact of the activities on their personal development and capacity building. Additionally, six Roma individuals were trained on the job to enhance their knowledge and skills in image and video editing, improving their employability through practical, hands-on training. Their progress was evaluated through reports prepared by their practice mentors and questionnaires included in their training files.
The project directly resulted in the creation of 6.8 jobs, empowered 40 Roma individuals through targeted measures, and engaged over 2,400 attendees in cultural activities, demonstrating a wide-reaching impact on both individuals and communities.
Summary of bilateral results
The Icelandic partner, Óðinsauga Publishing House, played a key role in organizing events for the distribution of the book and film in Iceland. They facilitated the promotion of the film and coordinated the distribution of 500 books translated into Icelandic. These efforts were carried out during three events held in three different schools across Iceland, engaging a total of 525 participants and successfully raising awareness of Roma culture in the local context.