The Project “Amaro Magipé: Actions for the Empowerment of Roma Women and Youth” was launched in May 2023 and concluded in April 2024 implemented by SolidarityNow in partnership with Lighthouse of the World and the Cultural Association of Roma Women residing in Drosero, Xanthi “Elpida-Hope.”

The phrase “Amaro Mangipe” in the Romani language conveys a sense of ownership, pride, and accomplishment in one’s work. The program aimed to empower and engage Roma women and youth through activities and training designed to foster socialization, skill development, awareness-raising, violence prevention, psychosocial support, and overall empowerment.

A key focus of the youth group was to cultivate mentors who would work within their communities to highlight and address longstanding issues affecting the Roma population.

Collaboration, open processes, and participatory planning were the program’s core principles, ensuring that activities were co-designed and that mentors emerged to sustain and expand future initiatives.

Throughout the program, the groups grew in size and frequency of meetings. They successfully implemented impactful initiatives and continue their work, recognizing the need for youth mentorship and positive role models who can inspire both younger generations and the community as a whole.

This guide outlines the methodology and approach used by these groups, based on skill-building workshops.

The program was implemented in Pelekas (Katerini), Dendropotamos (Thessaloniki), and Drosero (Xanthi) and was supported by the Community Centers of Katerini, the Municipality of Ampelokipi-Menemeni, and the Municipality of Pavlos Melas.

👉 A dedicated feature on the project can be found here.