Cypriot Bold Leaders Demonstrate Commitment to Intercultural Dialogue

31 January 2009

Workshops took place at schools and educational centers in both Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities

During the week of January 31- February 8, youth from both Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, who participated in the Bold Leaders Cyprus Program in Denver Colorado during the summers of 2003-2008, took part in island-wide intercultural activities organized by Critical Mass Leadership & Education and sponsored by Embassy Nicosia’s Bicommunal Support Program.

With the goal of building on leadership, communication, problem solving and teamwork skills emphasized during the summer camps, the week of intercultural pursuits included community service activities involving visits to the SOS Children’s Orphanage and tree planting at Bogaz Park. Other activities focused on improving listening and communication skills through drama workshops, poetry readings and organized games. Workshops took place at schools and educational centers in both Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. These were open to the public and were well attended by students, teachers and parents. The final day culminated in a celebration with over 150 youth at the J.W. Fulbright Center in the UN-patrolled buffer zone and included the presentation of a tile mural project representing the work of Bold Leaders from 2003-2008.