News | Horyzon, Power to the young people

Graduation ceremony with diploma handover in Colombia

01.03.2023 There was something to celebrate in the Horyzon project in Colombia: A total of over 1500 young people were able to receive their diploma for successful participation in the "Paza la Paz" project. This means they were present at at least 80 percent of the activities and workshops. During one year, the 14 to 24 year olds attended self-selected modules on the topics of "Civil Society Participation", "Professional Independence" and "Peaceful Coexistence & Conflict Resolution". The knowledge acquired in the training sessions helps them to develop into self-determined and active adults who can bring about positive change in their society. Especially in the neighborhoods of Colombia affected by poverty and violence, few of the young people have future prospects and see no other option than to join illegal activities. Many of them are also suffering from anxiety and depression. At "Paza la Paz," the young people learn, among other things, how to talk about such issues and are shown alternative options. For example, 15-year-old Laura from Cali says she learned how to deal with her fears and negative thoughts in the project. In small groups and with like-minded people, experiences were discussed and advice given to each other. "Being in a group and working with a lot of different people helped me meet new people and get out of my comfort zone. My goal is to become a great person who helps others," Laura says. She, too, was able to receive a diploma and celebrate her successful graduation with her colleagues.