Reserve List
Lead Partner: PRAKSIS – PROGRAMS OF DEVELOPMENT SOCIAL SUPPORT AND MEDICAL COOPERATION
Co-Partner: CULTURE BREAK BORDERS / KULTUR BRYTER GRENSER
Project Geographical Location: Greece
Maximum project grant amount: € 15.000
Duration: March 2024 – November 2024
The “Music Embracing Cultures” project, spearheaded by PRAKSIS in collaboration with Global Girl Media Greece and Culture Break Borders, pursued the integration of youth from refugee, migrant, and Greek backgrounds through music, video production, and social awareness training. Each partner played a distinct role in executing workshops that highlighted cultural diversity, gender equity, and human rights. Through these activities, the project aimed to dismantle prejudice and foster cross-cultural understanding, yet encountered notable challenges that influenced the scope of its output.
Key activities:
- Music and songwriting workshop
Originally aiming to produce 5–10 original songs, the workshop adjusted expectations due to low participant turnout, limited access to accommodation centers, and seasonal work opportunities. Under the guidance of Culture Break Borders, participants engaged in storytelling and songwriting, ultimately composing one multilingual song. The process encouraged self-expression and cultural integration, with participants responding positively and expressing interest in future workshops.
- Digital media and video production workshop
In collaboration with Global Girl Media Greece, PRAKSIS facilitated a media workshop on music video production and digital storytelling. Participants gained hands-on experience with musical instruments, recording equipment, and video production techniques, and they finally created one short music video. Security considerations regarding personal data required multiple video modifications, leading to a program extension. Despite challenges, the workshop successfully provided a lasting visual record of the project’s impact.
- Gender-based violence and Human rights workshop
PRAKSIS and partner organizations led a workshop on gender-based violence (GBV), diversity, and inclusion. Participants explored gender stereotypes, identities, and personal experiences with discrimination. The workshop provided practical tools to recognize and address GBV and human rights violations in a supportive environment.
Challenges
While the project aimed for multiple songs and videos, high production costs and time constraints limited output. Logistical barriers and budgetary limitations restricted interpreter services, impacting communication. Nonetheless, partners secured studio space, completed one song and video, and laid the foundation for future initiatives.
Impact and societal implications
The “Music Embracing Cultures” initiative showcased music and media as powerful tools for social change, fostering empathy, unity, and advocacy for human rights. Participants explored their voices as instruments of self-expression, recognizing music’s ability to convey emotions beyond language. This model demonstrated the transformative power of artistic collaboration, emphasizing justice, solidarity, and intercultural understanding.
