The Roma Education Fund Slovakia Launches Roma Pride Youth Project
The Roma Education Fund (REF) and the Roma Entrepreneurship Development Initiative (REDI) are thrilled to announce a new partnership to implement the Roma Pride Youth Project. This initiative aims to empower Roma youth by focusing on education, leadership development, and social inclusion.
Roma Pride Youth Project (RPYP), financially supported by the U.S. Embassy in Slovakia, will tackle the critical educational and social challenges faced by Roma youth in Slovakia. This investment in their education and future aligns with the core objectives of the Roma Education Fund, aiming to build resilience within Roma communities through education.
In line with the Roma Education Fund’s (REF) new strategic direction, the foundation is fully dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Roma leaders, experts, and managers. This project aims to bolster our organizational objectives and significantly contribute to broader Roma advocacy efforts. Furthermore, strategic partnerships and collaborations, such as the “Roma Pride Youth Project”, play a crucial role in fostering pride, self-esteem, confidence, and a deep sense of belonging among future Roma future leaders and advocates, which is essential for improving the well-being of the Roma communities.
“Education is often the only way for Roma children to escape the social, economic, and political exclusion that a sizeable portion of Slovakia’s Romani minority continues to experience today. I am proud that through this project, we can help support and empower Roma youth in overcoming the challenges and barriers they face.” – Ambassador Gautam Rana.
The Roma Pride Youth Project will provide a range of non-financial support mechanisms for Roma students, including mentoring, leadership training, and cultural identity reinforcement. By offering Roma-to-Roma mentorship and facilitating peer networking, the project aims to reduce school dropout rates and empower Roma youth to achieve academic and social success.
“Too many Roma students feel the urge to choose between being Roma or achieving. We need to break this stigma and build a healthy ethnic identity among young Roma – both proud and successful” – Stano Daniel, director of Roma Education Fund Slovakia.
Key activities within the Roma Pride Youth Project include:
- Mentorship Programs: Connecting Roma students with successful Roma professionals to foster personal growth and academic success.
- Leadership Workshops: Training Roma youth to develop leadership skills, enhancing their ability to contribute to their communities.
- Cultural Events and Public Awareness Campaigns: Promoting Roma heritage and challenging societal stereotypes to foster greater understanding and cooperation.
This initiative is vital to fostering a more inclusive society and aligns with the goal of the Roma Education Fund to combat social exclusion and promote tolerance.
The Roma Pride Youth Project will serve as a catalyst for change, empowering Roma students to overcome educational barriers, engage in civic life, and become role models for their peers.
