Training Program
Active Youth: More Than 40 Young Activists Put Their Purpose Into Action
Training program for young activists, an initiative of VeneActiva in alliance with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation Andean Countries.
Veneactiva, in alliance with the Friedrich Naumann Foundation Andean Countries, enthusiastically celebrates the resounding success of the “Active Youth” program. This innovative initiative brought together more than 40 young activists from various communities, providing them with comprehensive training in areas such as mental health, cyberactivism, leadership, and communication.
During the program, the participating youth had the opportunity to develop essential skills to become purposeful leaders and agents of change in their respective communities. The program's multidisciplinary approach included intensive workshops and interactive sessions that foster dynamic and practical learning.
Promoting initiatives like 'Active Youth,' which trains young leaders, is crucial as it supports the development of open and free societies. The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for the Andean Countries aims to train community leaders in principles such as individual freedom and equal opportunities so that future generations are prepared to face global challenges with an innovative and responsible approach
Hüneke-Brown adds, “We are convinced that these young Peruvians and Venezuelans, who have participated in workshops such as integration public policies with high commitment and motivation, have been equipped with leadership and critical thinking skills and will be able to face contemporary and future challenges with creative and inclusive solutions.”
The young activists received training in:
Mental Health: Strategies for self-care, psychological first aid, and community support, crucial in times of global challenges; this module was led by psychologists Loredana Hernandez and Nurys Morín.
Cyberactivism: Use of digital tools to promote social causes, storytelling techniques, crisis management on social networks, personal branding, and how to amplify their voice on online platforms; led by digital marketing specialist Wilfran Ovalle.
Communication and Leadership: Techniques for assertive communication, effective leadership, and more; led by Carlos Gilson.
Image and Communication: Effective techniques to convey messages and connect with diverse audiences, led by Nancy Arellano, president of VeneActiva.
Politics and Migration: Module on the role of youth in Latin America, the role of activists, hate speech, and more, directed by activists Verónica Acosta and Eduardo Liendo.
Commitment and Purpose
The objective of “Active Youth” is to empower young people with the knowledge and tools necessary to become effective leaders and agents of change. The training received allows them to address local problems with a global perspective, promoting initiatives that benefit their communities in a sustainable and meaningful way.
“In a world where the voices of young people are more important than ever, it is crucial to offer them the tools and support they need to be heard and lead meaningful changes in their communities,” said Verónica Acosta, a young activist and program facilitator. She added, “We are excited about the success of the 'Active Youth' program and look forward to seeing how participants apply their learning to create a positive and lasting impact.”
What Young People with Purpose Say About the Program
“It has been a very rewarding and enriching experience. I have been able to share with people from various careers who, in a certain way, have complemented each other on the same topic and we have agreed on the goals we have for society as a whole.” - Alexandra Montenegro (Young activist and program participant)
“I have learned a lot about leadership and communication. As I am applying for the diplomatic service of Peru, this program helps me to improve my oratory skills and has helped me see different perspectives that I did not have before and that I have been working on during the program.” - Daniel Díaz (Young activist and program participant).
A Lasting Impact
The success of the program is reflected in the passion and commitment shown by the young activists. VeneActiva and the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for the Andean Countries are proud to have facilitated a space for growth and learning, reaffirming their commitment to youth development and community well-being.
“For VeneActiva as an organization led by Venezuelan women, we lived through many conflicts in our youth and saw how opportunities for growth and impact were closed off, so our responsibility is to ensure that new generations do not lose those opportunities.”. – Comments Nancy Arellano, President of VeneActiva.
Closing ceremony and certificate awarding
On June 8, at the San Antonio Deluxe Hotel in Lima, certificates were awarded to more than 40 young activists who successfully completed the "Active Youth" training program. The event included emotional speeches from Veneactiva Vice President, Nurys Morin, and Niome Hüneke-Brown (Director of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation Andean Countries), who spoke about the importance of creating such spaces for FNF Andean Countries.
Two outstanding program fellows, Katherin Méndez and Daniel Díaz, also offered words of inspiration, sharing their experiences and learning, highlighting the positive impact of the program on their lives and work as activists.
About Veneactiva
Veneactiva is an organization dedicated to promoting social development and youth empowerment in Venezuela. The Friedrich Naumann Foundation Andean Countries, with a long history of supporting democracy and civic education, joins this mission by providing invaluable resources and expertise.
For more information about “Active Youth” and future initiatives, go to www.veneactiva.org