Programme description the Netherlands

In 2007 more than 160 art projects and workshop were organized in and around centers of asylum seekers in the Netherlands. 2.400 children and youngsters attended a workshop in 33 different centers of asylum seekers;
through art and publicity refugees were heard in society. In collaboration with external partners 33 exhibitions, performances and other expressions showed people in the Netherlands the way these children think and live. It gave the children opportunity to show their talents and build trust and confidence in their environment
A few examples:
- Exhibition of paintings by children and youngster from the centre of asylum seekers in Den Helder. Theme was: 'This is my place';
- Children from AZC Drachten performed in their own costumes and decors in several public spaces in Drachten, in the children’s farm, the Experience Library and a elderly home;
- With 'The One Minutes Jr' - a network that voices the position of young people in challenging part of society - a group of youngster produced 16 movies with the theme: hospitality. The short movies were shown in cultural centre 'Nowhere Amsterdam', are on YouTube and are in the race for the international One Minutes Award, a yearly competition for 1 minute-movies. These activities reaches 17.250 people directly; indirectly even more through media attention;
- Exchanges between the centers for asylum seekers and the art world though collaboration with partner of music, theatre and art world. This year it was the musical meetings that were centre of attention. Several orchestras, ensembles and mobile children’s museums performed in libraries and museums;
- 10 artists who were refugees themselves were educated in giving workshops and doing art projects with children and youngsters from centers of asylum seekers;
- A manual on company projects with refugees and asylum seekers was developed and send to companies;
- A method of work is developed for workshop without words. These projects are especially designed for children whom do not speak any Dutch yet;
- A method of work is developed for working with youngsters for 'Just Girls'. A how-to-manual is developed and was handed out;
- A community for youngsters was established in centre for asylum seekers. Meeting other people (also outside the centre), going to exhibitions and theatre also stimulate the need for recognition and appreciation. In 2007 exchange programs were founded with companies like 'De Baak', educational institute, the ministry of Foreign Affairs and law office Linklaters. Young refugees themselves also coach and teach in the centers, adopt a company or start a project.
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