This week an online discussion for young people was organized by the Xenion High School in Paralimni, the ‘Famagusta Avenue Garage’ in Deryneia and GIGEM (Kyrenia Youth and Resources Centre) with the support of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus. 

The participants discussed how the pandemic has affected their everyday lives and future, its impact among vulnerable groups and ways that youth from both communities can collaborate to overcome challenges.

The main concerns of the young participants were education, future employment, the health and financial future of their families, as well as the continuous restrictions in crossings. The youngsters also discussed positive aspects of the physical distancing.

Colleen Malvina Demetriou, one of the participants, said that “during the lockdown I had the chance to connect online with persons from other communities,” while Yassine Chagh stated that “online events, like this, provide more opportunities to easily connect with persons living throughout the island.”

More similar discussions are planned, with the aim of connecting youth from both communities and deepen their understanding and relations with each other.   

The recently launched ‘Famagusta Students Together’ initiative that aims to bring together high school students through collaborative activities, resumed its actions after a pause due to the COVID-19 lockdown.