Ramallah, Palestine – The Palestinian Vision Organization concluded the second edition of its “Etad” project with a closing ceremony attended by project participants, the Executive Director of the organization, Mr. Rami Nasreddin, project managers, as well as H.E. Ms. Tarja Kangaskorte, Head of Mission at the Representative Office of Finland to the State of Palestine, and Ms. Lara Petro Ghawi, Development Cooperation Officer at the Finnish Representative Office.
Targeting youth between the ages of 18 and 25 from Jerusalem, Salfit, and Nablus governorates, the project aimed to empower young Palestinian men and women to take on active roles in social, political, and economic change. “Etad” focused on equipping participants with knowledge and skills in international law, governance, community campaigning, and advocacy—enhancing their individual and collective capacities.
The ceremony featured a video presentation highlighting the key milestones of the project since its launch in 2024, including the participant selection process, intensive training sessions, and field visits to decision-makers in ministries and official institutions. It also showcased two community campaigns initiated by the participants: one focused on protecting green spaces and the other on enforcing the minimum wage law.
One of the participants delivered a speech sharing their personal experience, emphasizing how the project transformed their self-perception and strengthened their role as an active citizen—positively impacting both their personal and professional life.
In her remarks, Ambassador Kangaskorte expressed her pride in supporting Palestinian youth and praised the meaningful efforts made by the participants. She reaffirmed Finland’s ongoing commitment to initiatives that enhance youth participation in decision-making and foster positive societal change in Palestine.
Mr. Nasreddin, Executive Director of the Palestinian Vision Organization, underscored the organization’s belief in youth as true partners in shaping a better future. He explained that “Etad” aims to empower a new generation seen not merely as future leaders, but as current stakeholders actively contributing to advocacy and change on both community and national levels.
The event also included an open discussion between the participants, Ambassador Kangaskorte, and Mr. Nasreddin, during which the youth shared their recommendations for future development of the project. Both sides emphasized the importance of listening to youth voices and continuing to create inclusive spaces for their civic and political engagement.
The ceremony concluded with the distribution of participation certificates to the youth.