The second transnational meeting (TPM) of the project, which was held in Delft, Netherlands on October 9th 2023, marked another stepping-stone in the collaborative efforts of the consortium united in using sports as a tool for refugee engagement and community building. This meeting focused on evaluating the results of the training course conducted in Sofia, Bulgaria, during the summer. The training course aimed to enhance the skills of youth workers, equipping them with the knowledge to understand the unique needs of the project’s target group and empowering them to use sports as a means to engage with refugees and promote community cohesion.
Participants from various partner organisations unanimously praised the training in Sofia, emphasizing its significance in providing valuable skills and knowledge on the subject. The course not only enriched their understanding of engaging with refugees through sports but also left them with fond memories of their time in Sofia, Bulgaria. The successful organization of the training was attributed to Mundus Bulgaria, which played a main role in ensuring that the participants had a productive and enjoyable experience. The training course itself was led by an expert in refugee camps and hands-on humanitarian work Berat Ezel from Turkey.
During the TPM, the partners took the opportunity to share the outcomes of their internal staff training programs. These programs were designed to extend the impact of the Sofia training course and further enhance the professional development of other staff members. By doing so, the partners aimed to multiply the project’s positive effects, both within their respective organisations and in the communities they serve.
The primary focuses of the meeting was the planning and execution of local activities that would directly engage with the project’s target group over the next few months. Participants acknowledged the varying contexts and vulnerabilities of the refugee populations in their respective countries, which necessitates flexibility in designing and implementing local sports activities. While the specifics of the activities may differ, the common goal remains to propagate the knowledge and benefits acquired through the project, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and aiding the inclusion and well-being of refugees. This adaptability is a key strength of the project, allowing it to make a positive impact in diverse contexts.
