Youth Exchange in the Netherlands DiversiTEA

While exploring different kinds of tea traditions in Europe, we would like to create a space to talk about diversity, things that bring us together, and things that bring us apart.

We have already applied for this YE in 2023, however there was no more funding for patner countries, which is why we are applying again, which an application that has also been improved based on the NA feedback.

Tea rituals, in particular, can be a powerful tool for mindfulness and intentionality. By creating a dedicated space and time for tea drinking, we can cultivate a sense of presence and awareness that can carry over into other areas of our lives. And when we share this experience with others, we can create a shared sense of mindfulness and connection, deepening our relationships and our sense of community.

Furthermore, the act of preparing and serving tea can be a way to honour and celebrate diversity. When we take the time to learn about and incorporate different tea-drinking customs into our own rituals, we are demonstrating a willingness to embrace and celebrate the differences that make us unique.

Objectives:
Connect with each other through getting to know tea culture from different regions of Europe, explore Europe’s DiversiTEA. Before the Youth exchange we will document stories from our parents, grandparents and our local communities about Tea, Traditions of drinking it, why people drank tea, what rituals did they have with it and what was the meaning of tea for them.
Raise awareness about human rights and beauty of diversity through organising a youth exchange about tea. During the youth exchange we will not only learn about each other's cultures, but we will also work together toward raising awareness about human rights through Tea Talks about Human Rights.
Collaborate with local stakeholders in the Netherlands to host 3 Tea Talks during the Youth exchange;
Organise tea talks locally in our communities after the youth exchange;
Develop creativity, self-expression, communication skills through theatre and storytelling
Create a podcast where the Tea Talks will be released for the future.

Methods: Theatre and storytelling;

YE Activities:
Tea origins and relation to human rights and fairtrade
Rituals and ceremonies around tea, creating a sense of community
Benefits of drinking tea for health and wellbeing
Tea language in our communities, including music and jam sessions
Tea history and its relation to human rights, with a focus on the unique specialties of each participating country.

By exploring the diverse world of tea, we can gain a greater appreciation for the many different ways that people around the world connect with one another. We can learn about the history, culture, and traditions that have shaped the tea-drinking practices of different communities, and we can celebrate the diversity of these practices.

IMPORTANT: When sending us a partnership proposal, please send us a list of specific persons who will come to the YE, the youth leader, who it could be. That could change later, we have to know now, however who will come to the YE and how they can benefit.