In 2024, Kudwa’s Expertise Exchange Program provided a platform for diverse talents within our community to shine, offering a series of impactful workshops led by migrants and individuals with migration backgrounds. This initiative created a safe and inclusive space where participants could showcase their skills, build capacity, and inspire others through their unique experiences. With an average of 12 participants per session, and an audience evenly split between new and returning attendees, the workshops fostered meaningful connections and consistent engagement.
A Diverse Lineup of Workshops
Harmonies of Narrative (January 19 & 26, 2024):
The year began with a powerful workshop series blending musical and rhythmic activities to facilitate storytelling. These sessions provided a creative outlet for participants overwhelmed by injustice, particularly those with intersectional identities. By sharing stories through music, attendees found a collective voice, building solidarity and self-expression.
The workshop was led by Ilona Abdelfattah, a music and art therapist
Local Foreigners Workshop (February 20, 2024):
This workshop embraced the cultural journeys of “Local Foreigners” in Barcelona. Conducted in English, Spanish, and Arabic, it used movement, music, and shared experiences to connect participants, celebrating the diversity and richness of their stories.
The workshop was led by Maria Nasr, who is an experienced Group Facilitator and creative writer.
Self-Defense for Women (March 13, 2024):
Led by Gina, a dedicated Kudwa instructor, this workshop offered femmes a safe space to learn basic self-defense skills. Empowering and practical, the session emphasized self-confidence and personal safety.
Introduction to Public Speaking (April 2, 2024):
This session provided essential tools for effective communication, helping participants gain confidence in speaking to diverse audiences. By breaking down barriers, the workshop equipped attendees with skills to share their stories and insights boldly.
This workshop was led by Syria’s debate champion and trainer Hala Zeizafoun.
Employment Opportunities in Public Administration (April 30, 2024):
Co-organized with Bayt-Thaqafa and the Barcelona City Council, this workshop introduced migrants to job opportunities within Catalonia’s public administration. It aimed to enhance their understanding of the system and promote workforce inclusion.
The workshop was co-led by Soumeya Lerari, Kudwa’s experienced facilitator and community mobilizer.
Migratory Grief (May 7, 2024):
This healing-focused workshop provided a space for migrants and refugees to process the emotional challenges of displacement. Through collective exchange and practical tools, participants found support and strategies to navigate their realities.
The workshop was conducted by Virginia Puschnegg and Soumeya Lerari.
Painting From Within (November 17, 2024)
Psychologist and psychotherapist Daniela Pereira guided participants through a transformative experience using art and intuitive painting to process emotions. This creative journey fostered healing and self-discovery in a welcoming environment.
Poetry Without Borders (December 8, 2024):
Closing the year on a high note, this workshop celebrated multilingual expression through poetry and prose. Participants shared their voices in various languages, discovering the beauty of cultural diversity and the power of words to unite.
The Impact of the Expertise Exchange Program
Each workshop highlighted the talents and perspectives of individuals with migration backgrounds, providing them with a platform to lead and inspire. By offering a space free from judgment and barriers, Kudwa empowered trainers to build their capacity while enriching the community with their unique skills.
The program’s structure also encouraged continuous engagement, with a balance of new and returning participants in every session. This dynamic ensured a steady flow of fresh perspectives while nurturing a core community of learners
Looking Ahead
Kudwa’s Expertise Exchange Program continues to be a testament to the power of diversity, creativity, and shared learning. By amplifying the voices of migrant trainers and fostering inclusive spaces for capacity building, we aim to inspire even more connections, growth, and mutual support in the years to come.
Together, we open doors to learning, understanding, and belonging.
