September 19, 2017 was a special date for NET-MED Youth. Representatives of the network in different countries congregated in Brussels to showcase the tremendous work that they have been doing in the region to empower young people and raise their voices in decision-making circles.

 

For Aya Nasser, NET-MED Youth member from Lebanon, the event was not only her first trip abroad, but it was an eye-opening experience.

 

“I gained so much at NET-MED Youth’s Creating the Future of the Mediterranean event in Brussels on September 19, 2017. It was the first time I attended an international event, the first time I took a “business” trip and the first time I learnt that we, youth of the southern Mediterranean countries, are all facing the same challenges,” says Aya.

 

“At the event I met many other young people from NET-MED Youth and I had a chance to socialize with all the attendees. The discussions and exchanges we all had opened my eyes to how much we all share in the southern Mediterranean region – our interests, our priorities, and our challenges. Before, I had no idea how similar my issues in Lebanon, were to those of other young people in Jordan or Palestine, for example.

 

It is good when young activists from different countries and backgrounds know the importance of working with youth and come together to find solutions. The road is long and I am looking forward to meeting all the participants again so we can benefit from our common experiences and continue working for a better future for youth.”

 

 

#BuildTomorrow

 

 

Aya NasserAya Nasser is 24, from Lebanon. She is Project Coordinator and M&E Officer at the Lebanese NGO Development for People and Nature Association (DPNA), and has been working in youth programs since June 2015. Aya has a BS and an MS degree in Accounting and Finance. She attended several training and holds certificates in Trauma Healing, Profound Stress, Stress Management, Creative Facilitation, Active Citizens, and Child Protection, among others.

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Activities building skills among youth organizations and young journalists; to enhance youth representation in media and promote freedom of expression, media and information literacy and youth-generated media content.

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#YOUTHEMPLOYMENT

Activities joining youth organizations, employment experts and different national stakeholders to engage in dialogue and work together on unemployment solutions and skills needs. 

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#YOUTHPOLICIES

Activities empowering youth to participate in the communal and national development, revision and implementation of national youth strategies and public policies.