Peer-Learning workshops: members of the T4H youth network transfer knowledge to their peers
Aiming to expand the network’s readiness and preparation for upcoming field activities, young leaders at the “Together For Hope” network conducted a series of “Peer Learning” workshops, during which they shared knowledge and skills they acquired in recent months with a group of their peers.
Active network members, the project, and the T4H network’s coordinators led an intensive series of workshops from November 16-23, 2024, held at the Social Developmental Forum’s operational office in Deir Al-Balah, middle Gaza. The workshops highlighted a range of timely topics and skills; principles of humanitarian work during emergencies, optimal methods for engaging with children and adolescents, and youth contributions to educational and wellbeing initiatives.
Expanding the Network
Currently, T4H consists of 19 well-trained young leaders, who played a key role in launching the SDF’s Safe Learning Spaces (SLSs) that provide education and wellbeing support for children and adolescents. Aiming to expand the network’s impact all over the Gaza Strip, the network is planned to grow, adding 100 young leaders soon.
A Tailored Capacity-Building Program
Project coordinator, Angham Mattar, welcomed attendees, introduced the SDF’s mission, and emphasized the significance of efforts that support education, such as this UNICEF-funded project. She outlined that these workshops are part of a tailored capacity-building program for the T4H network.
T4H network coordinator, Abdel Hakim Awad, highlighted the importance of these sessions, as they foster youth leadership and agency in expanding task forces involved in educational spaces for children and teachers. The workshops focused on designing and leading community initiatives, communication skills, resource management, effective planning, Human Centered Design, and other dynamic topics.
Challenges and Knowledge Sharing
Such a unique and insightful experience; It was my first time delivering a session to my peers. I gained a vital experience through the exchange of knowledge and ideas. Hopefully, the proposed initiatives will soon be implemented.
Mai Afifa, T4H network member
“The capacities, creative ideas, and energy I first hand noticed prove that youth won’t reserve any effort to make a change for the sake of Palestine.” Sohaib Abu Jalabmo, T4H network member
Basma Shaldan is a young participant in the T4H-led workshop. Reflecting on her participation, she says: “I had an exceptional experience in the peer learning workshop. I learned the importance of communication and interaction activities. I also learned how to design impactful educational messages that address children’s needs and help them make healthy decisions in their community.”
For me, peer education is a challenging journey of self-reflection and a life-long learning; sharing my experience and knowledge through interactive dialogue with my peers.
Nagham Al-Zain, T4H member
A Youth-Led Educational Initiative
These workshops are part of the project “Youth Networks Collaborating Towards Enhanced Educational and Well-being Opportunities for Children and Adolescents“, launched by the Social Developmental Forum in partnership with UNICEF and the Youth Advisory Panel (YAP). through adopting an interactive youth-driven approach, it aims to reconnect children and adolescents with educational environments and mitigate the gap caused by prolonged disruptions to formal education due to the ongoing war since October 2023.
