Economic Empowerment of Young People through a Local Economy and Civil Society Space (Saha)

IBDA’ – Arabic for start- provides a creative way of involving young people in developing their communities: Young people are participating in local economic development by deciding in public meetings and discussions what the needs and problems of their communities are. They decide in a voting process what initiatives shall be implemented to address local needs and problems. This process engages young people in providing solutions for their community, while ensuring their rights to self-determination and decision-making. In parallel, the community centre Al Saha – Arabic for arena – serves as a public space for the community and creates a model for grassroots participation where members of civil society are active and lead their development. Al Saha is also a social enterprise that will include workspaces, community spaces, a community garden, a second-hand shop/Dukkan, and a kitchen to support the mission and activities of the partner organisation while ensuring its financial viability.