Our organization is dedicated to championing LGBTQI+ rights, with a primary focus on fostering acceptance, respect for human rights, and eliminating discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics. Our work is aimed at supporting and strengthening the LGBTQI community while providing vital information on LGBTQI issues, thereby establishing a bridge of communication between the community, the general public, and the state.
As an organization, our overarching goal is to shape a society where no person faces discrimination due to their sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or sex characteristics. We envision a society that is safe, diverse, inclusive, and intersectional, one that upholds freedom and equality for all while respecting human rights.
Our organization is a collective of passionate individuals committed to promoting and supporting human rights. We firmly believe in the values of inclusivity and acceptance, regardless of factors such as sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, color, ethnicity, religion, age, or disability. Our mission revolves around advocating for acceptance, self-acceptance, equality, and equity, while simultaneously working towards harmonizing Cypriot society with LGBTQI+ community issues on an equal basis.
Our actions are guided by the following key principles and objectives:
1. Defending Human Rights: We actively defend, fight for, and promote the human rights of LGBTQI+ individuals, striving to eliminate prejudices, stereotypes, stigma, and social exclusion.
2. Raising Awareness: We engage in awareness-raising efforts, providing information and education to society, the public, families, various actors, and professionals about sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, and sex characteristics.
3. Combating Discrimination: We stand firmly against LGBTQI-phobia, heteronormativity, sexism, toxic masculinity, and all forms of exclusion and discrimination that hinder progress towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
Our organization operates with a deep commitment to creating a world where LGBTQI+ rights are respected, and where individuals can express their true selves without fear of discrimination or prejudice. We are dedicated to advocating for change, raising awareness, and fostering a society that embraces diversity and equality for all.
Argonaftes NGO, established in 2004, initially aimed to foster friendship and understanding among youth through sports like football, futsal, and table tennis. Evolving over time, the organization broadened its mission to encompass various areas, including art, environmental sustainability, entrepreneurship, human rights, and gender issues. While maintaining an active table tennis team, the NGO collaborates with the Cyprus Table Tennis Federation and regularly competes, receiving recognition from the Municipality of Strovolos.
In terms of advocacy, Argonaftes has been actively engaged in bi-communal initiatives. Notably, the organization advocates for full Cyprus citizenship for children from Turkish Cypriot mixed or single-parent families, striving to provide them with opportunities for enhanced education and future career prospects. The NGO has organized numerous youth exchanges and training sessions, focusing on themes such as Arts for Inclusion and Arts for Social Change. Through Erasmus+ and ESC accreditation, these initiatives extend beyond Cyprus to locations like Izmir, Antalia, Riga, Dobele, Latvia, Poland, Lithuania, and Georgia.
Collaborating with partners across Cyprus, including academics and teachers, Argonaftes engages in arts and cultural activities. The organization addresses issues such as disability rights, refugee inclusion, and youth empowerment, cultivating a spirit of respect, understanding, and acceptance. Actively participating in local and international events, seminars, workshops, and activities, Argonaftes aims to overcome borders in pursuit of its mission. The NGO serves as both a sending and hosting organization through ESC, sending young members abroad as volunteers and hosting entrepreneurs.
With a strong online presence through its website and social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, Argonaftes ensures that its publications and press releases reach a wide audience. The organization's commitment lies in supporting youth in reaching their goals and addressing various societal challenges.
At Birth Forward we envision to create an informative culture in Cyprus that honours, respects and includes parents in the decision-making process of creating and growing a family, while providing evidence based, multidisciplinary information. Birth Forward stands as an ambassador for parents wishing to make autonomous choices about their own and their families' welfare throughout the full cycle of creating a family. We aim to provide advocacy, support and education for families and professionals in regards to the various stages of planning, creating and growing a family in Cyprus. We have been advocating for improved access to information, education, and choice when it comes to pregnancy, childbirth and parenting, to enable new and future parents to make informed choices. We have been advocating for Respectful Maternity Care, including women as active agents in medical decision-making processes, for state support for parents such as through including IVF in the GHS system for all, extending maternity leave, and improving maternity healthcare standards.
Birth Forward was founded as an island wide organization. From our conception, we have sought to include all of the island’s communities in our processes, and have been holding meeting throughout the island. Our educational and informative material is made available as much as possible in different languages spoken in Cyprus. We seek to adopt a multilayered, multidisciplinary approach in our work, and our projects, such as Baby Buddy Forward, have been developed in collaboration with different stakeholders, such as medical professionals, health services, academic experts, grassroots activists, and parents as end-beneficiaries. We consider our strong collaboration with the Cyprus University of Technology Nursing Department, which included many of our academic members of our Scientific Advisory Board pivotal in ensuring our work is in line with extant scientific research and ensure academic rigor.
Our organization, comprised of a dedicated team of three individuals, is on a mission to uncover the historical truths and events that transpired between 1955 and 1974. We focus on extensive research in archives, published papers, documents, and oral history studies to shed light on this pivotal period in history.
Our primary target group consists of individuals who possess knowledge and firsthand experience from the years 1955 to 1974, ensuring that our research is enriched by their insights.
Our working field revolves around historical facts, and we are committed to the rigorous pursuit of uncovering and documenting these truths.
As historians and researchers, our core mission is to reveal the hidden facts of history through meticulous documentation and the collection of oral history studies. We employ a variety of research methods and collaborate with individuals who have lived through this period to construct a comprehensive and accurate historical narrative.
While our expertise lies in historical research, we recognize the need to develop fundraising skills to support our projects and initiatives effectively.
We anticipate potential challenges in partnership related to language diversity and ensuring harmonious collaboration among diverse stakeholders. Our commitment to overcoming these challenges is unwavering, as we understand the value of diverse perspectives in historical research.
Our project idea revolves around maintaining a steadfast focus on our core mission, undeterred by external factors. We aim to remain resolute in our pursuit of historical truth, guided by a commitment to uncovering and sharing the facts of this critical period.
In addition to our dedication to historical research, we actively contribute to the collaborative process by ensuring our active participation in partnerships. We value the exchange of knowledge and insights with our partners and are eager to contribute our expertise.
Our expectations from partner organizations or partnerships are simple yet significant: a serious and sincere effort to work together in our collective mission to reveal the historical truths of the past. We seek partners who share our commitment to historical accuracy and are willing to collaborate wholeheartedly.
Overview:
KÖDER is a dynamic association dedicated to capturing and sharing the remarkable narratives of women who have significantly contributed to the social, cultural, and economic development of Cyprus. Our portfolio includes numerous short films and two published books, each featuring the inspiring stories of 41 exceptional women. Currently, we are passionately engaged in crafting our third book, shining a spotlight on another 41 women and their impactful journeys.
Current Initiatives:
In an exciting venture, KÖDER has embarked on an advocacy training and bicommunal project, marking our debut in collaborative efforts with other associations. While we bring a wealth of experience in storytelling, we eagerly anticipate the synergies that collaboration can bring and look forward to working with your organization and others.
Vision:
Our vision is rooted in documenting the narratives of women who have left an indelible mark on Cyprus' development. We aspire to reach out to women within this scope, producing documentary films that chronicle their lives and archiving these films for the benefit of future generations. Our commitment extends to sharing these films on social and traditional media platforms. Additionally, we aim to collaborate with relevant organizations to promote these films, and, when necessary, transform them into written material through book publications or electronic formats that combine text, visuals, and narration.
Mission:
KÖDER is on a mission to empower and elevate women who have added significant value to society. Through various initiatives such as stories, films, books, and more, we strive to foster collaboration and solidarity among these women, serving as inspirational examples for others. Our organization actively contributes to generating ideas that enhance women's effectiveness in social, cultural, economic, and political realms. By aligning with executive efforts and legal processes, we seek to create a lasting impact on the advancement of women in Cyprus.
The Dostou Chance project, part of the Agora Project Community initiative in Nicosia since 2018, focused on advocacy and dialogue, co-creating events with a emphasis on social inclusion and eco awareness. Teaming up with other various teams and projects, it organized multicultural workshops to promote unity and cultural exchange.
Addressing eco-friendly practices in fashion, the project held two educational exhibitions in 2020 and 2021, highlighting environmental impact and suggesting eco-friendly alternatives. Despite receiving worn-out clothing donations, Dostou Chance creatively repurposed textile waste into collaborative art installations, symbolizing collective positive change.
Emphasizing collaboration, the project actively engaged in cross-community partnerships, strengthening community ties and promoting environmental awareness. Proposing art creation using textile waste, Dostou Chance leveraged art to inspire collective environmental consciousness. Involving many participants, their collaborative art installations had a profound and extended impact, spreading the message of environmental consciousness throughout the community.
Our association is driven by a singular purpose: to safeguard employee rights, enhance working conditions, and advocate for the fair treatment of all workers. We focus on addressing the concerns and challenges faced by employees in today's labor market.
Our primary target group consists of employees from various sectors, industries, and backgrounds, all of whom deserve equitable treatment and respect in the workplace.
Within the expansive field of the labor market, our approach is multifaceted. We take concrete actions to achieve our objectives by organizing events dedicated to employee rights, actively participating in relevant initiatives and events, and conducting comprehensive studies on human rights, particularly as they pertain to workers.
At our core, we are a collective of individuals who are deeply committed to the cause of securing equal and fair rights for all employees. We firmly believe that every worker, regardless of their occupation or status, deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and fairness in their workplace.
Our association seeks to empower employees by providing them with the necessary knowledge, resources, and advocacy to assert their rights effectively. We advocate for just and equitable working conditions, ensuring that employees are not subjected to discrimination, exploitation, or any form of unfair treatment.
Through our concerted efforts, we strive to create a labor market where employee rights are upheld, working conditions are continually improved, and fairness prevails. Our association serves as a beacon of support and advocacy for employees, working tirelessly to make their voices heard and their rights protected.
Our civil society organization is dedicated to the purpose of addressing environmental issues in line with sustainable development principles. We operate in a diverse working field that encompasses environmental concerns, cultural preservation, nature conservation, human rights advocacy, and the pursuit of peace. Our target demographic includes children, youth, and local communities.
In our pursuit of these objectives, we engage in various activities designed to foster environmental awareness and protect our natural surroundings. We are committed to educating people and raising awareness about environmental issues. Specifically, we work diligently to safeguard the environment and promote sustainable development in the Lefke/Lefka district. Our efforts extend to organizing cultural activities and workshops in diverse fields, all aimed at inspiring awareness and action to protect the next generation and establish a unique identity with the village and its people.
Within our organization, we prioritize the development of skills such as fundraising, advocacy, and voluntarism, which are instrumental in achieving our goals. Simultaneously, we contribute essential skills to the community, including networking and active participation.
While we are steadfast in our mission, we acknowledge the potential challenge posed by the division of Cyprus. In response, we seek partners who can assist us in networking, fostering partnerships, providing essential know-how, and finding common ground for collaborative activism.
Our innovative project ideas include initiatives focused on promoting awareness of common cultural heritage among youth, addressing environmental concerns, enhancing a shared community identity, and working towards peace, all while actively engaging in recycling efforts. Through our dedication and partnerships, we aim to create positive change and build a sustainable future for our communities and the environment.
The Global Policies Centre (GLOPOL) is committed to facilitating a political resolution to the Cyprus problem by nurturing trust and fostering dialogue between the island's communities. Our primary focus revolves around leading constructive discussions and prioritizing relationship-building initiatives among Greek Cypriot civil society groups, stakeholders, and Turkish Cypriot counterparts.
We collaborate closely with international organizations, support United Nations' initiatives, and actively engage in dialogue with Turkey, Greece, and stakeholders in the Eastern Mediterranean and the European Union to promote stability and peace in Cyprus and the wider region.
GLOPOL has a history of advocating for freedom of expression in the northern part of Cyprus, organizing workshops and publications in collaboration with the Bar Association. Currently, we are in the process of rebranding to better align with our objectives.
Through extensive partnerships with the Association of Social Reform - OPEK, we strive to enhance dialogue, tolerance, and understanding among Cypriot Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). Together, we conduct joint initiatives, panel discussions, and implement EU-funded projects to address critical challenges across communities. Our network of NGOs focuses on various issues including the economy, environment, media freedom, corruption, youth engagement, and employment.
By engaging in multifaceted efforts, GLOPOL actively contributes to resolving the Cyprus issue while promoting stability and cooperation in the region.
Hade is a dynamic multicommunal initiative dedicated to the cause of peace activism in Cyprus. Our overarching purpose is to foster connections, create cultural exchanges, and facilitate open communication among the people of Cyprus. We are driven by the urgent mission of preventing permanent partition and promoting peace and reconciliation on the island.
Our primary target group comprises individuals residing in Cyprus, regardless of their background or affiliation, as we believe that peace and unity should transcend all boundaries.
Within our working field, we employ a multifaceted approach that includes mingling, language promotion, and direct action. Our methods encompass:
1. Organizing excursions around the island, coupled with non-formal education workshops, to bring people from different communities together and foster understanding.
2. Offering virtual and physical language classes in both Turkish (TR) and Greek (GR) to break down language barriers and promote communication.
3. Engaging in direct action initiatives that adapt to the evolving political landscape, allowing us to address emerging challenges and opportunities for peace.
While we strive to develop skills in various areas, we recognize the importance of further developing our campaigning expertise to effectively advocate for peace and reconciliation.
Our organization excels in mobilizing people, harnessing their collective energy and commitment to the cause. We understand that our strength lies in our ability to bring individuals from diverse backgrounds together in the pursuit of a common goal: a united and peaceful Cyprus.
We acknowledge that challenges related to promotion and implementation may arise, but we are steadfast in our dedication to overcoming them. Our expectations from partner organizations revolve around collaboration and sharing expertise, particularly in reaching decision-makers and running effective campaigns.
One of our compelling project ideas is to promote the teaching of Greek and Turkish languages in all schools across the divide, fostering language proficiency as a means of promoting mutual understanding and communication.
Hade is resolute in its mission to promote peace and reconciliation in Cyprus, and we actively seek partners who share our vision and commitment to working together for a brighter and more unified future on the island.
Hands Across the Divide (HAD) is a bi-communal women’s organisation whose members share the values of democracy, equality, inclusion, diversity and non-violence. HAD’s activities involve workshops, article publication, policy-work, civil society partnerships, podcasts, webinars and storytelling.
It has been prominent in lobbying for gender equality at UN, EU and local leadership level and is the first and only Cypriot women's organisation that was invited to a virtual roundtable with a UN Secretary General in 2020 to discuss the Women Peace and Security (WPS) agenda.
HAD recently formed partnerships with the International Alliance of Women (IAW) together with whom they co-hosted a panel on Women and Climate Change at the 2021 NGO Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) Forum and with the International Association of Human Values for a series of online workshops with 20 local women on Mindful Leadership.
The Association of Women to Support Living (KAYAD) is a dedicated non-governmental organization founded in 1998 with a profound mission: to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women and contribute to achieving gender equality by empowering and elevating the role of women in society.
Our target group encompasses women and the broader public, reflecting our commitment to fostering a society where everyone plays a role in advancing gender equality, combating domestic violence, addressing women trafficking, and promoting women's rights.
As an organization, our vision is to challenge gender stereotypes, advocate for gender justice, and actively work towards eliminating all forms of discrimination against women. We accomplish this through a range of impactful activities and initiatives:
1. Awareness Raising: We conduct a variety of awareness-raising activities aimed at preventing domestic violence and promoting gender equality. Our efforts are dedicated to creating lasting change in our community.
2. Sustainable Community Development: We are committed to ensuring that the steps we take for community development are sustainable, leaving a lasting positive impact on the lives of women and the broader society.
3. Education and Advocacy: We are advocates for comprehensive education on healthy relationships and reproductive rights in schools. Through effective lobbying efforts, we strive to incorporate these essential elements into educational curricula. KAYAD has also developed an 86-page curriculum catalogue for high-school students, focusing on gender equality, healthy relationships, and sexual and reproductive health education.
4. Support Services: We provide vital legal advice and psychological counseling to survivors of domestic violence. Additionally, we are initiating support groups for women in the postpartum period, recognizing the unique challenges they face.
5. Training and Capacity Building: We offer a range of training programs covering topics such as domestic violence, women trafficking, self-development, healthy relationships, and reproductive rights. These programs empower individuals with knowledge and skills to create a more equitable and just society.
KAYAD stands as a beacon of hope and support for women, advocating for their rights, well-being, and empowerment. We are dedicated to promoting gender equality, eradicating discrimination, and creating a world where women are valued, protected, and empowered to lead fulfilling lives.
Kyrenia Youth Association, consisting of youth aged between 16-30, has engaged in advocacy during the course of its operation for the attainment of the goals of ensuring the economic and cultural cooperation and solidarity of young people, to aim and establish the culture of peace and social equality among young people, to create young people who are free from oppression and can think and act freely, to create their common economic, social and to protect and represent their cultural interests and to ensure that members have productive and harmonious working opportunities, to make every effort and initiative for the development of their rights and interests in society and for individual development and progress.
In regards to the attainment of the foregoing, the Kyrenia Youth Association has organised;
1. A series of public lectures given by experts on ‘Safe Sex’, ‘Dating Abuse’, ‘Substance Addiction’ and ‘’ moderated by the Association on mental and physical wellbeing of the youth;
2. A four-event causerie on young entrepreneurship;
3. A joint organisation of an event for fundraising for 17 May Committee in northern part of Cyprus,
4. A three-day streetball tournament organised together with the Akdeniz Sports Union where 90 teams consisting of young people from different age categories partook.
5. A Lefkara Workshop where each participant learned to create a Lefkara pattern by an expert.
In addition, the Kyrenia Youth Association took an active role through its board members in the preparation, securing the fundraising, administration, modulation and overall execution of the 3rd Turkish Cypriot Youth Congress where hundreds of young people across northern part of Cyprus partook in a two-day congress to voice their opinions on a plethora of subjects, along with organising more informal and leisure-based events during the course of the calendar year.
Our civil society organization is dedicated to the mission of organizing cultural events centered around critical themes such as human rights, women's rights, and LGBTI rights. We also actively work towards promoting unity, world peace, and fostering environmental perspectives within Cyprus, with a particular focus on residents in Kyrenia.
Within our chosen working field, we take pride in championing the cause of human rights, women's rights, and LGBTI rights through a wide array of activities, including event coordination, film screenings, book launches, seminars, and conferences. Our primary aim is to raise awareness and encourage meaningful dialogues on these vital issues.
As a civil society organization, we are committed to enhancing our organizational skills and developing a robust organizational chart to streamline event management and coordination. We bring a strong spirit of volunteering and unwavering integrity to our projects, contributing to their overall success.
One of the potential challenges we foresee is securing the necessary finances to support our initiatives. To address this challenge, we actively seek partnerships with organizations willing to provide support in the areas of organization and operational issues.
As part of our ongoing projects, we have a compelling idea for a bicommunal youth initiative. This initiative is designed to empower young individuals with knowledge about the geography and history of Cyprus, aligning perfectly with our overarching mission of promoting unity, peace, and understanding within our community.
Our civil society organization is enthusiastic about collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations to make a meaningful impact on the issues we are passionate about. We aim to contribute to a brighter future for Cyprus and its residents, with a special focus on Kyrenia.
Civil Society Organization Profile Statement:
Our civil society organization is deeply committed to fostering rural, responsible, and sustainable tourism with a strong emphasis on local, green tourism and embracing the philosophy of a slow life. Our target audience encompasses youths, women, local activists, and peace advocates, all united by a shared passion for these ideals.
In our working field, we specialize in organizing a wide range of activities and peace excursions that promote sustainable tourism practices. We actively participate in local festivals and organize nature walks, all of which serve to enrich the cultural and environmental fabric of our community.
Our organization is characterized by our unwavering dedication to the principle of "Eco not ego!" This motto drives our mission to promote Eco-Agro Tourism and social responsibility projects that benefit our community. We firmly believe in the power of bi-communal and multi-communal partnerships to create meaningful change and lasting impact.
As an organization, we embody the spirit of responsible and sustainable tourism, advocating for a harmonious coexistence between nature and culture. Our initiatives prioritize the preservation of local traditions and environments while promoting a more balanced and sustainable way of life. We actively engage in projects and activities that align with these values, ultimately fostering a sense of peace and unity within our community.
Through our commitment to Eco-Agro Tourism, social responsibility projects, and inclusive partnerships, we strive to create a brighter, more sustainable future for our community and the broader region. Our work is guided by the principles of sustainability, responsibility, and harmony with nature, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably among all members of our society.
Mission and Activities:
Lefkoşa Gençlik Derneği (LGD) is dedicated to fostering unity among the youth in northern part of Cyprus, aiming to introduce the island's culture to all young individuals. It strives to cultivate a thoughtful, inquisitive youth who values humanity, nature, and all living beings. LGD's activities encompass facilitating economic and cultural support networks among 15-30-year-olds, advocating for a culture of peace and social equality, and empowering young minds to think freely and act independently.
Advocacy Initiatives:
LGD has been actively engaged in safeguarding and enhancing the rights of young individuals. It has adhered to the statutes outlined in the legal text on associations and participated in various local and international organizations, representing and supporting the interests of the youth. The organization conducts discussions, generates solutions, and liaises with relevant local bodies to address the challenges faced by young people.
Partnerships:
LGD has collaborated extensively with diverse institutions and organizations both locally and globally. It has established partnerships with cultural, educational, and sporting bodies to organize conferences, workshops, and seminars aimed at nurturing the intellectual and social development of the youth. Additionally, LGD actively engages with local and international entities to foster relationships, enhance visibility, and access resources beneficial to its members' growth and development.
Oxygen for Democracy is a non-profit, non-governmental organization founded in 2014 with a clear and vital purpose. Our main objective is to serve as a catalyst for change by fostering dialogue, facilitating debates, and encouraging commitments and actions that lead to tangible outcomes. We are dedicated to initiating discussions, exchanging ideas, and finding innovative solutions to key public policy issues, making them accessible to the public.
Our broad target group encompasses a wide range of stakeholders, including local and foreign political leaders, individuals from the public and private sectors, media representatives, academics, members of civil society, and youth. We are actively engaged in advocacy, promoting active citizenship, advancing participatory democracy, upholding human rights, and advocating for transparency, among other critical issues.
At our core, Oxygen for Democracy is comprised of individuals representing diverse backgrounds in academia, social, political, and professional sectors. We aim to foster a culture of political morality and enhance the scientific approach to decision-making processes in Cyprus.
Our flagship initiative, the Cyprus Forum, is a platform through which we collaborate with various organizations. The forum is designed to stimulate inter-communal interactions by bringing together a diverse array of participants, including political leaders, figures from the public and private sectors, media representatives, and members of civil society. It serves as an inclusive platform for bicommunal panels and collaborations, promoting meaningful dialogue and ensuring fair representation and decision-making for both communities in Cyprus.
While we recognize the importance of developing skills in project planning, implementation, and evaluation for successful outcomes, we also acknowledge the need for expertise in funding and budget allocation, as well as financial planning.
Our organization contributes its expertise in active citizenship, participatory democracy, and advocacy to drive positive change. We excel in strategic planning, organizing and executing impactful events, stakeholder mapping, and establishing and nurturing partnerships with various stakeholders, both locally and internationally. Additionally, our analytical skills are a valuable asset in our pursuit of informed decision-making.
As we work towards our mission, we face challenges related to inter-community dynamics and resource mobilization. We expect our partners to actively participate, demonstrate commitment, and adopt a collaborative approach in addressing these challenges.
One of our project ideas focuses on key areas such as human rights, peacebuilding, foreign policy, and trade, with a primary target group of civil society, particularly youth. Potential collaborative projects may include joint workshops, training sessions, and public debates aimed at enhancing cross-cultural exchange and promoting positive change in these critical areas.
Our organization is dedicated to the vital purpose of eliminating discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, gender, and gender expression. We are deeply committed to championing the rights and equality of LGBTI+ individuals and their allies.
Our primary target group comprises LGBTI+ individuals and their allies, creating a supportive and inclusive community that stands united against discrimination and inequality.
Our working field is firmly rooted in human rights and gender equality, and we actively engage in advocacy efforts to effect change both nationally and internationally. We collaborate closely with other national and international human rights organizations to amplify our impact.
We are an organization that values collaboration and partnership, leveraging our strengths and resources alongside like-minded organizations to further our mission. Our skills development focus includes fundraising and advocacy, which are essential for advancing our cause.
One of our key strengths lies in our ability to contribute networking and lobbying expertise, along with active participation in the collective effort to promote and protect the rights of LGBTI+ individuals. We understand the challenges we face, including the Cyprus dispute, nationalist discourses, and de facto judicial differences, and are determined to overcome them.
Our expectations from partner organizations align with our values of collaboration and activism. We seek partners who are willing to engage in networking and partnerships, actively participate in joint initiatives, provide support in knowledge sharing, and share common ground on activism.
One of our compelling project ideas, "United by Pride," centers on fostering LGBTI+ activism across the divide in Cyprus. This initiative aims to strengthen the rights of LGBTI+ individuals, promote understanding and tolerance, and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
Our organization, the Refugee Rights Association, is steadfast in our mission to combat violations related to asylum, immigration, refugees, and human trafficking. We are dedicated to serving a diverse target group, including immigrants, refugees, asylum seekers, people of color (POCs), and trafficked persons, with the aim of protecting their rights and ensuring their safety.
Our working field is comprehensive and impactful, encompassing a range of crucial activities:
1. Prevention of trafficking of international students, focusing on education and awareness to protect vulnerable individuals.
2. Advocating for and providing asylum rights to POCs and asylum seekers, ensuring that their claims are heard and addressed.
3. Leading anti-racist campaigns and building a network of allies to combat racism and promote inclusion and equality.
Our organization operates with a well-established structure, comprising 11 dedicated employees and a board of 5 members. We currently manage four distinct projects, each contributing to our overarching mission.
We place a strong emphasis on capacity-building and education, offering training to educators and university students on recognizing and addressing trafficking. Additionally, we provide essential services such as screening, issuing protection letters, offering housing and employment support, and conducting anti-racist social media campaigns to raise awareness and advocate for change.
As we work towards our goals, we aim to develop skills in setting the tone, lobbying, reporting, volunteering management, and digital proficiency, particularly in the areas of social media and web design. Realistic goal setting and situation mapping are essential skills we strive to acquire.
Our organization contributes valuable skills in grant and fund applications, project management, building and strengthening alliances, and crafting a clear vision and mission that drives our passion and credibility. Transparency is a core principle that guides our actions and decision-making.
Challenges we encounter include navigating different laws and legal systems, as well as varying implementations and conditions, which necessitate adaptability and perseverance.
We have specific expectations from our partners, including mutual respect, effective communication, and collaborative efforts to understand and pursue common goals. We welcome partnerships that involve interpretation and translation workshops, as they are vital in ensuring access to knowledge and justice for the populations we serve.
One of our compelling project ideas is centered on "Access to Knowledge," focusing on interpretation and translation services. This initiative includes research and data collection on detention conditions and lobbying duty bearers to uphold the rights of detainees. We are committed to making a positive impact and working towards a more just and equitable society for all.
Running-Fluent Initiative is a pioneering organization that operates at the dynamic intersection of wellness, integration, and environmental awareness. Our multifaceted work revolves around fostering a sense of community, promoting the well-being of both immigrants and locals, and raising awareness about environmental sustainability.
Our target group encompasses a diverse range of individuals, with a primary focus on immigrants, locals, and youth residing in Limassol, Cyprus. We firmly believe in the transformative power of bringing together diverse communities, fostering unity, and creating an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of their background, feels valued and connected.
As an organization, our driving purpose is to shape a sustainable future. We aim to achieve this by harnessing the potential of unity, diversity, inclusivity, and sustainable thinking. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that a multitude of voices actively participate in the climate dialogue and contribute to the creation of a multicultural, vibrant, and harmonious community. We envision a society where individuals are empowered to actively engage in building a more sustainable and integrated future.
Our organization is characterized by its innovative and inclusive approach. We are led by a diverse group of individuals, including immigrants and locals, who share a deep commitment to building bridges between communities. Our core principles are rooted in unity, diversity, and inclusivity, recognizing the strength that emerges when people from different backgrounds come together for a common cause.
To achieve our goals, Running-Fluent Initiative actively engages in a range of activities:
1. Community Building: We organize events and activities that bring diverse communities together, creating spaces for individuals to connect, share experiences, and build relationships.
2. Wellness Programs: We offer wellness programs aimed at promoting the well-being of individuals, fostering a sense of belonging, and supporting personal growth.
3. Environmental Awareness: We run campaigns and workshops to raise awareness about environmental sustainability, empowering individuals to embrace a sustainable mindset and take action.
Our approach is characterized by collaboration, workshops, events, and partnerships. We create environments where individuals are empowered to embrace sustainability and contribute to an inclusive community spirit in Limassol, Cyprus. Through our collective efforts, we strive to build a brighter and more sustainable future for all.
TSSR (The Shelter Students Refuge) is a grassroots initiative focused on promoting human rights, social justice, and combating discrimination and racism. Our primary field of work centers on providing support and advocating for African migrants and students residing in the Northern part of Cyprus, with the overarching goal of fostering an inclusive and supportive community for all.
Our target group encompasses a diverse range of individuals, including students, African migrants, and Cypriots, as we believe that building bridges of understanding and inclusion benefits society as a whole.
As an organization, our mission is to empower and uplift African migrants and students in Cyprus. We aspire to effect positive change by offering a range of programs and initiatives aimed at creating a more inclusive and equitable environment.
Our core activities revolve around the following:
1. Educational Support: We provide educational assistance and resources to African migrants and students, ensuring they have access to opportunities for personal and academic growth.
2. Advocacy: We actively advocate for the rights and well-being of African migrants and students, seeking to eliminate discrimination and racism in the community.
3. Community Building: Through partnerships, workshops, and events, we facilitate the creation of a supportive and welcoming community where everyone is valued and included.
Our organization operates with a deep commitment to our mission, striving to make a positive impact and foster a society where all individuals, regardless of their background, can thrive and contribute to the betterment of the community.
The Society for the Protection of Turtles (SPOT) stands as one of Cyprus's oldest marine conservation organizations, renowned for spearheading sea turtle nest monitoring and conservation efforts in the northern region since its inception in the early 1990s.
In collaboration with the Centre for Ecology and Conservation in the UK, SPOT's initiatives have primarily revolved around seasonal activities focused on studying and safeguarding nesting sea turtles, their eggs, and hatchlings. A crowning achievement of our work has been the establishment of five coastal Specially Protected Areas, ensuring the preservation of major green turtle nesting sites against insensitive development.
Encouragingly, our efforts have yielded tangible results, with annual clutch counts for both turtle species steadily increasing. This trend signifies the effectiveness of our conservation endeavors and offers hope for the gradual recovery of sea turtle populations.
As we continue our commitment to marine conservation, SPOT remains dedicated to safeguarding the precious habitats and populations of sea turtles in Cyprus.
The İskele/Trikomo Youth Association is a newly established organization dedicated to uniting and advocating for young people in the northern part of Cyprus. Our mission is to address the challenges faced by youth in our community and work towards improving their quality of life.
To achieve our goals, we actively participate in various programs and undergo training sessions to enhance our organizational capacity and better serve our constituents. Notably, we have collaborated on initiatives such as the Turkish Cypriot Youth Congress and contributed to the formation of the Youth Federation in northern Cyprus.
As we continue our journey, we are eager to establish meaningful connections and partnerships across the island. Through our collective efforts and enthusiasm, we strive to create positive change and opportunities for youth in the İskele/Trikomo region.
The organization Women in Film and Television (WIFT) in Cyprus, is dedicated to advancing gender equality and empowering women in the film and television industry. Our primary mission is to promote the visibility and representation of women in all aspects of these industries, from filmmaking and production to on-screen representation. We strive to create an inclusive and equitable space for women professionals, fostering their creative talents and advocating for gender equality through media and storytelling. Over the years, our organization has actively engaged in advocacy efforts and dialogue initiatives related to gender equality in the film and television sector. We have participated in awareness campaigns, panel discussions, and workshops organized by the Cyprus International Film Festival aimed at highlighting gender disparities in the industry and advocating for positive change. Additionally, we have organized the WIFT Cyprus Film Festival, locally, including films made by cross-communal filmmakers and collaborated with the WIFT International organization to promote gender-sensitive storytelling showing works made by Cypriot filmmakers and advocate for policies that support women's participation and representation.
We are actively lobbying at major festivals in Berlin and Cannes to secure an invitation for the WIFT International Summit to be held in Cyprus. Additionally, we seek collaborations with organizations and individuals, including line producers, crew, translators, guides, and drivers, particularly in the Turkish-speaking part of the island. Our aim is to produce a documentary titled 'She Should Run - Cyprus', which will focus on women politicians and highlight the causes and needs of various NGOs in the region.
Mission and Activities: YEU Cyprus is a youth NGO based in Nicosia. Our organization is dedicated to advocating for the rights of young individuals, nurturing their potential to emerge as influential contributors to society. YEU Cyprus is dedicated to creating meaningful experiences and implementing impactful youth-oriented projects, at a local and transnational level. We specialize in a range of activities, including organizing and facilitating workshops, conducting training courses, and orchestrating dynamic youth exchanges. At the heart of our approach is a dedication to non-formal education. We harness the power of experiential learning to fuel youth development, foster awareness, and build essential capacities. This drive is fueled by our core areas of focus: human rights, sustainable development, intercultural education, and youth participation.
Advocacy Initiatives: In recent years, YEU Cyprus has been involved in projects concerning advocacy with a focus on youth some examples include:
Out & Loud: empowering young members of social movements and encouraging activism among youth
Address the elephant: built awareness towards SDGs in the local community as a whole and gave young people the courage and motivation to speak up about sustainability in a creative, peaceful, and non-violent manner.
Art. Act. Disrupt: is a project targeting CSOs in their process for social impact.
EMYS - Engaging Marginalized Youth for Sustainability: is a project that aims to enhance the advocacy capacity of youth to empower them to support their cause.
Partnerships: The work of YEU Cyprus is mostly cross-sectoral and interdisciplinary with collaborations with the sectors of art, entrepreneurship, formal education, mental health, etc.
At the Youth Mental Health Initiative in Cyprus, our mission is twofold: to raise awareness about mental and emotional health among young people and to equip them with essential tools for empowerment and resilience. We recognize a pressing need for these processes and actions to provide a stable foundation for youth as they navigate the complexities of today's political world.
Although we are a new group without any joint projects to date, our members bring valuable experience from diverse backgrounds. We have been actively involved in various initiatives, including receiving U.N.D.P. small grant awards for bicommunal youth work, advocating for mental health and gender equality, participating in European projects, and engaging with numerous organizations and spaces.
Through our collective efforts and expertise, we are committed to making a meaningful impact on the mental well-being of youth and empowering them to thrive in both personal and political spheres