Friends Career Center (FCC) has been making strides in building connections and sharing its impactful work through a series of local and international engagements in 2024. These events provided valuable opportunities to network, share experiences, and present FCC's initiatives to diverse audiences.
Canada: Canadian Yearly Meeting (CYM)
Evrard represented FCC at the Canadian Yearly Meeting, participating in the Youth Department and Children’s sessions. He presented FCC’s core initiatives in Africa, including its new mental health workshop for youth in Canada. This interaction fostered meaningful dialogue around mental health and community development across borders.
United Kingdom: Meeting in Ealing Broadway
During the summer, Sandrine engaged with Quakers at the Ealing Broadway Meeting in the UK. She shared FCC’s mission and ongoing work, extending an invitation to members to learn more and collaborate. The meeting was a fruitful exchange, encouraging cross-continental solidarity and support for FCC’s initiatives.
South Africa: FWCC World Plenary
At the FWCC World Plenary in South Africa, Joyeuse represented FCC in an online session focused on peace and development in Rwanda. She also took the opportunity to connect with Quaker leaders who have been longstanding mentors to FCC, deepening relationships that continue to provide guidance and inspiration for FCC’s growth. This platform allowed FCC to showcase its role in promoting harmony and progress through its various programs, particularly emphasizing the philosophy of Ubuntu.
Germany: 24th International AIDS Conference
Agape attended the 24th International AIDS Conference in Germany under the theme “Put People First!” This global gathering focused on advancing efforts to end AIDS by 2030. Topics included women’s prevention options, mental health, comprehensive care, human rights, and innovative approaches like blood-based HIV self-tests. Agape shared FCC’s Ubugeni Bwomora program, highlighting its art-based therapy model for youth living with HIV. “This experience was invaluable for connecting with organizations and individuals dedicated to HIV-related initiatives,” Agape reflected. “Presenting our work and learning from others’ strategies strengthened our commitment to inclusive, comprehensive care in the fight against HIV/AIDS.”
Looking Ahead
Through these engagements, FCC has not only amplified its work but also drawn inspiration from global initiatives. The connections forged and lessons learned are shaping FCC’s strategies as it continues to empower communities and foster sustainable development.
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