Building bridges in Palestina: strenghtening identity

Building Bridges in Palestina

We experienced the power of stories during a storytelling training in Palestine and Israel. People were reinforced and got a clearer picture of their identity. Because of that they were better able to enter into dialogue. As a result, we set up a two-year program for young people to use storytelling in Palestine.

A 2-year storytelling program

In this project we focused on increasing understanding between Israelis and Palestinians on the West Bank and in Israel. Over a period of almost 2 years we trained young people to use storytelling professionally in their community. This was followed by a practice-oriented program, in which the trained trainers put their newly acquired knowledge into practice. We ended in March 2019 with a two-day conference for local professionals.

Results

Training 32 trainers for local communities, with a focus on reconciliation work and a peaceful coexistence
The empowerment of 192 workshop participants by sharing stories and listening to each other, encouraging them to play an active role in society
The promotion of equality between everyone, also between genders

The contribution to a strong, resilient and respectful community in Israel and the West Bank
The strengthening of listening and empathic skills through the use of non-violent communication
A 2-day conference in which we shared our method with 200 local professionals, so that they too can use storytelling.