Social Development Practice for Women’s Rights

This training course aims to empower youth workers by equipping them with the tools and methodologies to foster social development practices that enhance women's rights in urban settings. It combines participatory and experiential methods to strengthen understanding of gender inequality, intersectionality, and civic engagement.

General objective:
To empower youth workers by equipping them with the necessary tools and methodologies to foster social development practices that enhance women's rights from an urban perspective.

Specific objectives:

• To understand the role of youth workers in making social development commitments meaningful for advancing social justice.
• To analyze the barriers and enablers that influence women's participation in democratic life.
• To explore grassroots practices that expand the participatory capabilities of women in urban and social settings.
• To develop intersectional perspectives, applying gendered lenses to social development projects.
• To engage in hands-on experiences, such as participatory mapping and photo voice, to identify and address gender inequalities in public spaces.

Participants will explore practical tools and engage in fieldwork, such as photo voice, participatory mapping, and video voice, to assess and respond to gender-based disparities in public and civic spaces. The methodology is rooted in non-formal education and experiential learning, supported by guided reflection, group collaboration, and sharing of grassroots practices.

By the end of the training, participants will have strengthened their competencies in promoting inclusive and sustainable community development and will be better equipped to contribute to a more just and equitable society.

Key questions guiding the learning process include:

• What is the role of the youth worker in making social development commitments meaningful in the processes of advancing social justice and improving the quality of life for women?
• What is the role of grassroots practices of social development in expanding the participatory capabilities of women?

Training dates:

• Arrival: June 22, 2025
• Training: June 23–27, 2025
• Departure: June 28, 2025

Venue:
Associazione Domus Carmelitana Siculorum
Via Giovanni Grasso 13A, Palermo, Italy

Participant profile:

• Youth workers or active members of youth or social organizations
• Interested in women’s rights, civic engagement, and social justice
• Motivated to apply what they learn in their local communities
• Able to work in English
• 18+ years old
• Residents of participating countries 

Working methods:
Experiential learning, participatory methodologies, guided city exploration, problem-based analysis, workshops, and peer exchange.