Roma Youth from Zaedno Napred Leadership Camps Public Project Highlighted
Translated to English:
"Forward Together" is a youth camp for high school Roma students who have shown success in school and life. The camps began in 2000 by a group of volunteers in Bulgaria Peace Corps of the United States. The first camps were held in Shumen and Pazardzhik.
A year ago, the organization created Arete Youth Foundation - Bulgaria to lead the implementation of the camps. Its activities are aimed at overcoming social inequalities and discrimination against Roma young people and encouraging their active involvement in civic and political life. Through its programs it also aims to motivate young Roma to continue their education and develop in their professional field. The main purpose of "Forward Together" is to inspire confidence of Roma youth in our country, to show them that they belong to an ancient group of people who have always contributed to the development of Bulgaria.
"Forward Together" is a unique program because it combines lectures accompanied by instructive and interactive games tackling challenging topics such as prejudices, the history of Roma and opportunities for personal development in Bulgaria and abroad. This year there were two camps: in Varna for Roma youth from Northeastern Bulgaria and in Velingrad for Roma students in Southwestern Bulgaria. This year was quite different for the "Forward Together" leadership camps. This year, the youth at both camps decided, after a long debate, to perform volunteer work nearby. They desired to demonstrate that Roma young are sensitive to global issues. They discussed various proposals and decided on planting new trees, because they think it is a contribution to nature and to the flora of Bulgaria. The camp participants gathered together different amounts of money to purchase the trees. They purchased coniferous and exotic trees to plant in Varna and the day care center for children in the village of Aleko Konstantinovo, Pazardzhik. In addition, young Roma gave a good example of their peers from other cities, they showed that young people in Bulgaria are responsible and think green. Some people enjoyed the initiative of students and others just wondered if these trees were different just because they were planted by Roma! No! No, they are different. They are a showcase of young Roma who do not tolerate divisive behavior and take action.
Over the years, the Forward Together camps have involved over 500 participants from different parts of the country. This camp is helping decide the fate of many young people because they gain a vision for their future. Many young people from small towns and villages have changed their lives thanks to their participation in the "Forward Together" Leadership Camps in particular because the places they come from, information is scarce and there are few options. Each one is unique as well as ambitious.
Rosen Jordanov, 18, Sliven
We planted these trees because we want to think the next time I come in Varna and say "That tree I planted!" and be proud of it.. "
Angelina Rangel, 16, p. Limbs
Let us know that we planted these trees because the nature of air and Bulgaria are also present.
Sylvester Nedev 18, Shumen
I think everyone should plant at least one tree in their lives. I hope this will not be my last tree.
Radka Boneva, 21, Smyadovo
In a few years they will become trees. So there will be more fresh air and greenery.
Valeria Kamenova, 19, Montana
To plant a tree is the best thing you can do because it remains for life and you can always enjoy it.
Daniel Stefanov, 17d., Kyustendil
They are here for the public and media to see because in most cases they just say that Roma only destroy nature.
