A Peacemaking Project

In early September, participants attended the Gateway to Life Skills program, an Erasmus+ & BYC initiative hosted at UCLan University in Pyla. This program brought together Turkish-Cypriot, Greek-Cypriot, and Irish students with the goal of fostering cultural understanding and unity. Through interactive tasks, activities, and games, participants explored each other's cultures, breaking down barriers and forming meaningful connections. The program began with icebreaker activities, where everyone introduced themselves and shared personal stories, creating an atmosphere of trust and openness. These initial activities laid the groundwork for a journey of cultural exchange and personal growth.

The program included various activities involving the local community, such as football nights and a lively village festival in Pyla with singing and dancing. An intercultural night allowed participants to share their traditions through dancing, singing, and cooking, offering a unique glimpse into their respective heritages. Excursions to Lefkara village, the Camel Park, Famagusta city, and the Salamis ruins provided insight into the region's history and natural beauty. Creative sessions like film-making days gave participants the opportunity to record poetry, produce a mini-documentary about Pyla, and conduct street interviews with locals. These experiences not only enhanced life skills but also strengthened bonds among participants, leaving them with lasting memories and deeper cultural appreciation.

Have a look at the video that students from the Getaway to Life Skills have created as part of their peacemaking project and skills acquiring of video, allowing you to understand how the two communities can build something beautiful when put together without any fighting. Enjoy : )