FUTURES, our flagship project, is our dedicated response to the critical challenges faced by unaccompanied foreign minors in Spain, and the broader societal implications of their ineffective integration.
Unaccompanied foreign minors, defined as children below the age of 18 who have entered the country without the company of any responsible adult, embark on perilous journeys that often span multiple countries. Originating from nations such as Morocco, Mali, Algeria, and Senegal, they are commonly driven by a desire to escape poverty or conflict, and become a lifeline for their families.
However, their journey is far from over upon reaching European soil. One of the major challenges faced by unaccompanied minors is their integration into the host society. In Spain, stigmatization, discrimination, xenophobia, and drug misuse and addiction are some of the harsh realities they experience. Furthermore, as they approach the age of 18 and are no longer under the guardianship of the State, many find themselves in a situation of abandonment.
At Abrazando Ilusiones, we possess a profound understanding of this complex issue, grounded in the firsthand experience of our President, and the expertise of our team members. In response, we have developed the FUTURES project, a comprehensive support programme that extends beyond providing a basic lifeline to creating tailored learning environments and support networks to nurture their well-being and autonomy.
Through our FUTURES project, we offer comprehensive education, psychosocial support, and mentorship to empower these youths in shaping promising futures. Simultaneously, we strive to combat stigmatization, discrimination, and xenophobia while addressing the wider societal implications arising from ineffective integration.
We believe that every person, regardless of their background, carries an abundance of untapped potential waiting to be realized. This belief is not only at the core of our FUTURES project, but also resonates deeply within INACICAM.
Co-financed by the Community of Madrid, INACICAM is a year-long initiative specifically designed to foster the socio-labor inclusion of migrant and refugee young adults in Spain.
The essence of INACICAM lies in a holistic approach to empowerment and integration that encompasses the following key dimensions:
Unwanted loneliness is a growing concern that knows no age boundaries. In Spain, it touches the lives of our elderly people who yearn for companionship and recognition of their life experiences, as well as foreign minors and refugees who arrive in the country without the comforting presence of family. The NEXUS project emerges as a response, aiming to foster supportive community networks that combat unwanted loneliness and nurture intergenerational companionship and learning.
The program encompasses cooperative learning workshops, intergenerational mentorship, and a range of activities that bring together diverse age groups to share experiences and knowledge. Through these interactions, NEXUS creates an inclusive community where the bonds formed help combat the pervasive issue of unwanted loneliness and promote a sense of belonging among all participants.
Language is more than just words; it is the key to understanding, making informed decisions, and seizing opportunities. For newcomers, mastering a new language is essential as it opens doors to education and socio-labor inclusion.
The ÑOURNEY project emerges at the intersection of migratory journeys and the necessity to learn the Spanish language, with its unique use of the letter Ñ. Through ÑOURNEY, our aim is to break language barriers, foster cultural understanding, and empower newcomers to thrive in their new environment.
We recognize that linguistic competence is paramount for newcomers’ integration and meaningful contribution to their new community. With this understanding, ÑOURNEY provides tailored Spanish courses so that migrants and refugees in vulnerable situations can enhance their linguistic competence and overcome communication barriers.
We also believe that effective integration involves not only speaking the language but also understanding sociocultural nuances. To achieve this, ÑOURNEY delves into Spanish culture and customs, ensuring newcomers can confidently navigate and forge deeper connections within their host community.
IMOUHAY, named after the rural village in Northern Morocco where it is located, is a pilot project specifically designed to enhance children’s environmental awareness and foster community involvement for sustainable development.
Nestled in a region known for its tight-knit communities and rich cultural heritage, IMOUHAY addresses some of the challenges stemming from its underprivileged status and the environmental degradation plaguing the area.
Through a series of immersive learning experiences and practical workshops, IMOUHAY aims to empower the village’s youth to become environmental stewards and active contributors to the well-being of their communities while honoring their rich heritage and knowledge. By fostering a sense of ownership and pride in their local ecosystems, the project aims to create a ripple effect, where young generations become catalysts for collective action and positive change.
HANAA is a locally-partnered summer camp initiative located in northern Lebanon, through which Syrian refugee children and Lebanese youth come together to participate in peace-promoting activities.
Set against the backdrop of a region rich in archaeological heritage facing a series of compounded crises, HANAA harnesses the power of cultural exploration and cooperative endeavors to foster understanding and build bridges of friendship. Through multi-day activities and folklore, kids learn about their shared heritage, have fun, and collaborate to create a “peace mosaic” using pieces collected throughout the summer camp.
Follow our social media channels for timely updates and an inside look at the collective strides we are taking toward a more promising tomorrow. For inquiries or to get involved, do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to engaging with you!
Diana, our Volunteer Coordinator, holds an important role within our philanthropic efforts, as she not only oversees but also collaborates closely with the volunteers that help propel our mission forward. Born in Romania, Diana holds a master’s degree in Intercultural Communication, Translation, and Interpretation in Public Services, and her passion lies in uniting people for a greater societal good.
