Young A World of Neighbours (YAWoN) – a youth initiative of A World of Neighbours Network – aims to connect young people across Europe by fostering exchanges around art, culture, faith, and leadership, all with a vision of building a welcoming Europe.
Led by Faiaz Dowlatzai, originally from Afghanistan and now based in Sweden, the core team also includes Jacco Friedeberg from the Netherlands, Lilian Anazube from Nigeria living in Germany, and Gulhayat Mirzahmet from East Turkistan, residing in Sweden.
The main objective of YAWoN is to bring together a diverse group of young people, aged 16 to 26, from different European countries. These individuals will represent a wide range of cultures, faiths, and perspectives on religion, migration, and integration. Participants will include European citizens, artists, poets, and individuals with migration experiences, as well as those with leadership skills in intercultural dialogue.
Through storytelling, public speaking, and relationship-building, YAWoN will provide a platform for young voices to discuss ideas, present challenges, and share solutions on issues affecting refugees and migrants in Europe. The project fosters a spirit of ‘convivence’—living together in harmony—while empowering the next generation to shape a more inclusive and hopeful future for Europe.