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1. Photo Competition: ‘All for one. One for all’ Campaign

   

    

   The Competition:

   The Photo Competition is part of the WSCF-Europe’s campaign “One for all. All for one”, which aims to contribute to a more inclusive and fairer European society by empowering young people across the continent. Our approach is based on promoting equal opportunity, human rights and respect for human dignity, as core principles of every inclusive and diverse society.

   Through this initiative, we are looking for photos that can share stories of diversity and integration. The photos can be of individuals, communities, situations or anything that, in your perspective, best captures the spirit of the theme of the competition. We encourage you to share with the world photos that can tell a thousand words.

   Every participant can submit up to 5 photos, and we are particularly looking for creative ideas, for images that capture and tell a story. Every photograph should be accompanied by a title reflecting the theme and the essence of the photo. It should be also accompanied by a short description detailing the story or idea behind the photo.

   The Campaign:

   The aim of the “One for all. All for one” campaign is to engage young people and provide them with the tools they need to create effective content, aimed at challenging hate speech and violent extremism. To achieve this overall aim, we set the following specific objectives:

   • to upscale and mobilise grassroots youth initiatives on alternative positive narratives;
   • to develop innovative youth-led approaches and methodologies;
   • to combine knowledge exchanges with action-oriented output;
   • to support and develop young people’s voices to tackle these issues, and form a strong network of youth activists who believe in religious, ethical and human resolution of crisis.

   Eligibility:

   The focus of the competition is Europe, but photos from all over the world are welcomed and accepted. The competition is open to all students and young activists, with a special interest and passion for photography. Both amateur and professional photographers with their own perspectives and stories on diversity and integration are encouraged to submit their work.

   We particularly encourage members of our SCMs in Europe to take part in this competition, as it will be an opportunity to actively engage with our campaign and strengthen our connections.

   How to participate:

   Please send your photo(s) to communications@wscf-europe.org, before midnight 2nd November 2018. The photo(s) should be high quality image(s) in JPEG, TIFF or PNG format (preferably at least 3 megapixels). You should expect that, if your photo is selected among the best photos, it will be published as a poster or in a large format – therefore, the quality of the photos is important. Each participant can submit up to 5 photos.

   Please send your photos with the following name format: “YourLastName_PhotoTitle” and with a short description. The short description should include the following information:

   • Your short bio (name, age, nationality, profession and/or study, contact information, etc);
   • City and country where the photo was taken and the date when it was taken;
   • The title of the photo;
   • Description on the photo (who or what is in the photograph; what it represents; any information or story you relate the photo to; its link to the theme of the competition);
   • Any comment from the photographer.

   Conditions for participating:

   All photos submitted must be the participants’ own works and must not be edited, but submitted in original form. The person submitting the photo also takes responsibility for not infringing the privacy of any third party – by submitting the photograph, the participant confirms that they have the permission of all persons appearing in the photo to submit the photograph and for it to be published by WSCF-Europe.

   Prizes:

   The competition jury is composed of amateur and professional photographers, human rights activists and experts in communication. The jury will select the best photos and will award three prizes. The winners will be awarded different amounts, and a breakdown of the awards can be found below:

   • First Prize – €150
   • Second prize – €100
   • Third prize – €75

   All photos that enter the competition will also be published on the WSCF Europe website and social media on the International Human Rights Day, on 10th December, as WSCF-Europe will take part in this worldwide celebration. They will also be featured in online and print publications of the WSCF-Europe. By submitting the photo(s), the photographer agrees that the photo(s) will be used by the WSCF-Europe.

   After the selection and communication with the winners, the final results will be available online on the WSCF-Europe website and social media.

   We look forward to receiving lots of amazing photos from young people all over the world! ☺

   This project is implemented with financial support from the campaign partner, the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe.

   wscfe-editor

   September 9th, 2018 1:12 am | Continue Reading

2. Call for Participants: “Humanity Reclaimed: Youth Perspectives on Diversity on Inclusion” Conference

   “Humanity Reclaimed: Youth Perspectives on Diversity on Inclusion” conference in Thessaloniki, Greece
   29.11-05.12 2018
   

   

   We often hear people claiming that their faith in humanity is lost for a number of reasons. Sometimes this is attributed to external factors (usually technology and political choices), whilst other times it is connected to collective responses around major humanitarian issues, such as immigration waves from war-zones. Among those who claim that humanity is lost, there is often a sense that societies are backtracking from progress and regressing to older patterns of thinking. Our conference will be an attempt to enhance the dialogue on this issue by answering a number of questions: Why do some people think that humanity is lost? And if so, what do they recommend in order to reclaim it? Is the human condition at the moment all gloom and doom, or are there glimpses of hope that we tend to overlook by focusing on the negatives? And how do diversity and inclusion fit into all of this?

   If you would like to be part of this dialogue, join us between 29.11 – 05.12.2018 in Thessaloniki, Greece for the “Humanity Reclaimed: Youth perspectives on diversity and inclusion” Conference.

   Young people from all over Europe will be gathering to sing, eat, pray, learn and talk deeply about diversity, inclusion, and practices stemming from these ideals.

   During the programme, you will have the opportunity to participate in a series of workshops, lectures and small group discussions. These are aimed at creating mutual respect and enhancing understanding of topics such as the subject of how diversity and inclusion lead to a better future for all of us, whilst at the same time recognizing the challenges they pose to societies.

   
   We particularly encourage you to apply if:

   • you are a part of a WSCF-Europe Student Christian Movement, or
   • you have first-hand experience of working for diversity and inclusion within your organisation/movement/university, or
   • you work/volunteer supporting programs that foster diversity and inclusion in any kind of social setting (for example, but not limited to, educational institutes or workplaces).

   To participate, you can apply here. The deadline is 14th October. The language of the conference is English.

   During a five-day programme of workshops, lectures, and small group discussions we will build a platform upon which to discuss these topics.

   When? 29 November – 5 December 2018

   Where? Thessaloniki, Greece

   Why? Because all too often we hear that humanity is lost, but hopefully our conference will provide a different perspective to counter this viewpoint!

   How to apply? Through this form by  14th October 2018 (extended).

   Participation fee: 170€  (If you have any difficulty funding your attendance, please contact us at: conference2018@wscf-europe.org)

    

   The preparatory team is looking forward to seeing you in Greece, in December.

   Natia Tsintsadze, WSCF-E Executive  

   Pavlina Manavska, WSCF-E Campaign Coordinator

   Knut Natskår Svihus, Norway

   Viltė Keturkaitė, Lithuania

   Paschalis Gortsilas, Greece

   Kristine Evje, Norway

   

   For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. (1 Corinthians 12:12)

   

    

    

   wscfe-editor

   September 1st, 2018 10:36 pm | Continue Reading

3. WSCF-Europe is looking for a Treasurer!

   

   Job description:

   WSCF-Europe Regional Committee  (ERC) is looking to fill the role of the Treasurer in between two assemblies. The role shall start late summer 2018 and end at the assembly in late 2019 with the possibility to be considered for another term by the gathered Europe regional assembly of WSCF-Europe. This is an exciting volunteering role, in which you can grow and learn about financial management, as well as management of the NGO and matters of strategic organisational importance. Part of the role is also being a member of the ERC which decides and deliver the programmatic work in which the Treasurer can also participate and be involved in actively.

   Key responsibilities:

   Main Goal: Manage finances of WSCF Europe in a sustainable manner. To manage the work of WSCF Europe as the key decision-making body of the Federation in Europe between ERAs.

   • Prepare and manage the annual budget of WSCF Europe;
   • Ensure WSCF Europe accounts are professionally audited;
   • Ensure office bookkeeping and cash management are completed to a high standard;
   • Meet with partners and donors;
   • Help to write budgets for funding applications and financial reports to donors;
   • Be on the Board of the ERC
   • Actively participate in ERC email communications and Skype meetings in order to make decisions and shape the work of the Federation in Europe;
   • Monitor and evaluate the work of regional staff, give regular feedback and ask for improvement where necessary;
   • Attend four ERC in-person meetings in two years and be an active team member;
   • Represent WSCF Europe at partner events.

   You can read here about the experience of people who were part of the ERC over last decades.

   To be eligible:

   • You shall be a member of one of our affiliated or associated movements.
   • You shall be a student or a recent graduate.

   How to apply: Apply by filling-in this online form.

   Deadline: No deadline, ongoing open role until the next WSCF -Europe Regional Assembly.

   For an informal conversation about the role, contact WSCF-Europe Chair, Zuzana Babicova, at chair@wscf-europe.org. We are looking forward to receiving your application and any informal email enquiries about the role.

   wscfe-editor

   July 21st, 2018 6:55 pm | Continue Reading

4. Call for project proposals: “All for one. One for all” Campaign

   

   Following the WSCF-Europe Conference in Palermo, which took place last May and focused on media literacy, WSCF-Europe would like to invite all our affiliated and associated Student Christian Movements (SCMs) to submit wonderful project ideas that capture the theme “All for one. One for all”. The focus of the WSCF-Europe campaign this year is combating negative narratives surrounding diversity and inclusion, and the project proposals should align with WSCF-Europe’s efforts in this area.

   The Campaign:

   The ultimate aim of the campaign is to engage young people and provide them with the tools they need to create effective content, aimed at challenging hate speech and violent extremism. To achieve this overall aim, we set the following specific objectives:

   • to upscale and mobilise grassroots youth initiatives on alternative positive narratives;
   • to develop innovative youth-led approaches and methodologies;
   • to combine knowledge exchanges with action-oriented output;
   • to support and develop young people’s voices to tackle these issues, and form a strong network of youth activists who believe in religious, ethical and human resolution of crisis.

   SCMs and their members have always been at the heart of WSCF-Europe’s work, so in order to achieve all the objectives listed above, we look forward to your engagement and enthusiasm.

   Your ideas and who can apply:

   We want to hear from both SCMs who have participated in out training in Palermo, this May, but also from other SCMs, who did not have a chance to attend the training. For the SCMs who attended the training in Palermo, we strongly encourage you to submit your proposals on the ideas that you have come up with during the training, although these ideas can be changed/adjusted.

   Please note that we can offer support ONLY to SCMs affiliated and associated to the WSCF-Europe region. If you do not meet this criteria, we will not be able to fund your activity.

   What we offer:

   We offer financial support of up to € 2 000 to cover costs associated with your activity. This can include securing a venue, covering any materials used, paying any fees associated with bringing in an external speaker etc.

   We can also offer support in the form of human resources. Members of our WSCF-E team are experienced in the areas of project planning and delivery, events coordination, financial management, communications and others, and are more than happy to support you throughout the stages of planning, delivering and evaluating your activity.

   We also have a wide network of field experts in areas such as: theology, youth work, media literacy etc. We can create links between members of this network and your SCM, securing external speakers that will ensure the success of your event.

   How to apply:

   To apply, please fill in this application form by 15th August 2018 (extended).

   On the form, you will need to describe what the activity that you are planning to organise encompasses, the costs associated with it, and the kind of support that you are seeking from WSCF-Europe.

   Please note that all project ideas need to be implemented by November 2018.

   Contact:

   

   The WSCF-Europe Campaign Team is really keen to hear your ideas. The team is formed by:

   Pavlina Manavska (Campaigns Coordinator)

   Natia Tsintsadze (Regional Secretary)

   Zuzana Babicova (Chairperson)

   Lina Leonavičiūtė (Global Executive Committee Representative)

   Maria Atănăsoaei (Communications Officer)

   For any questions regarding the campaign and/or the project ideas applications, contact Pavlina Manavska, at campaigns@wscf-europe.org.

   The financial support that WSCF Europe offers to SCMs is possible through the funding received from the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe. 

   

   wscfe-editor

   July 8th, 2018 9:08 pm | Continue Reading

5. Call for International Preparatory Committee: “Humanity Reclaimed” Conference, Greece

   We are excited to announce an open call for the members of the International Preparatory Committee (IPC) for the youth conference “Humanity Reclaimed: Youth Perspective on Diversity and Inclusion”, that will take place in Greece, in December 2018.

   We are living the reality when discrimination, intolerance, xenophobic attacks, violent extremism, unemployment, underrepresentation and many other challenges fill our daily lives. This is particularly relevant to youth and we need to prepare young people to respond to this harsh reality with the most effective way possible: with humanity! For the WSCF-Europe this is not a new notion – it’s the core to everything we have ever done, but in no way exclusive only to our belief. In fact, it represents a common ground of understanding among people of different faith and belief. Humanity fosters understanding, acceptance and respect for another human being. During the youth conference in Greece, we would like to nurture this concept among young people and promote its wider use as a proactive response to any existing or future challenge. We believe that this is one strong, effective and long-term oriented way forward to raise youth workers, leaders, community members or just citizens.

   The topic and venue of the meeting have been selected on purpose. Thousands of refugees and migrants have been washed away on the shores of Greece in hope for a better life in Europe. These lives, mostly unknown ordinary people, are part of our humanity and by silencing our conscious about their death, we wash away our humanity, too. During the event in Greece, we would like to invite those young people directly affected by all of these challenges and those being in the forefront of protecting human rights of disadvantaged groups, democratic values of our society. The overall aim of the conference is to address challenges in Europe by finding innovative, effective, youth-led solutions. The conference will put youth perspectives at the centre of political debates, and highlight the importance of considering more active use of young people as part of solution.

   

   If you would like to explore these topics both from local and European perspectives, you are interested to learn and use non-formal educational met

   hods, work within an international team of young people, plan and facilitate the session with invited speakers and field experts, develop new skills, challenge yourself and have a lot of fun – than this project is for you!

   DEADLINE for submitting online applications: 15 July 2018.

   You may access online application form HERE.

   The main responsibilities of the International Preparatory Committee’s members are:

   • Active participation in the regular online meetings before the conference;
   • Participation in the in-person preparatory meeting during August/September 2018 (exact dates to be agreed and finalised by the members of the IPC);
   • Discuss and finalise a thematic framework of the conference and the programme;
   • Plan, review and finalise (at various stages of the project implementation) both methodological and organisational details;
   • Work with the team, fulfil the tasks and contribute to the overall group process and work;
   • Prepare the call and select the participants;
   • Prepare the participants for the conference sending them all the necessary information regarding the programme, providing guidance and support before, during and after the conference;
   • Invite and communicate with speakers, experts, resource persons and partners in accordance with the project aims;
   • Facilitate and lead the sessions of the conference;
   • Do the evaluations of the day and final evaluation of the conference;
   • Help with the reporting of the conference;
   • Help with the promotion of the conference and ensuring media visibility.

   Being a preparatory committee member at a WSCF-Europe conference would offer you:

   • Work in a lively international environment together with other members of the team;
   • Experience and develop your skills in managing of youth projects – preparation, implementation, evaluation, follow up and reporting;
   • Getting familiar with WSCF work, connect with other Christian students and young people in Europe;
   • Explore and learn topic of the conference;
   • Contribute with your own knowledge, experience and expertise;
   • Develop your skills in group work, leadership, facilitation and management;
   • Make connections and friends from all around Europe and have a lot of fun together!

   Timeline and plan of activities:

   • Online work on preparatory tasks and programme (July – December 2018);
   • First in-person preparatory meeting (August/September 2018);
   • Final preparatory meeting right before the conference (December 2018);
   • The conference (December 2018);
   • Evaluation meeting after the conference (December 2018);
   • Help with reporting of the event (December-January 2018).

   Methodology: 

   The programme of the conference is based on non-formal education and intercultural learning, with some key elements of group work, theoretical inputs, thematic field trip, workshops, presentations, followed by debate and discussion. The programme creates different learning spaces (role plays, simulation games, interactive exercises, plenary sessions, group work, brainstorming and independent reflections) for participants which will be rotated throughout five working days.

   Practicalities:

   Accommodation, food, travels and visa costs for International Preparatory Committee members will be fully covered.

   The project is financially supported by the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe.

   If you would like to get a taste of how it is to be in a Preparatory Committee, read this reflection by Pavlina Manavska, this one by Annika Foltin, or this one by James Jackson.

   For any questions, don’t hesitate to contact wscf@wscf-europe.org.

   wscfe-editor

   July 4th, 2018 9:09 pm | Continue Reading

6. Call for Applications: WSCF-AP Regional Program on Peacebuilding & Dialogue in the Korean Peninsula

   

   The World Student Christian Federation Asia-Pacific (WSCF-AP) is organizing  a Regional Program on Peacebuilding and Dialogue, hosted by the Korea Student Christian Federation (KSCF). Thirty-three students and youth are expected to gather in Seoul, Korea between 17-24th August 2018,  for sustainable peace, as they reflect on the theme:  A Prophetic Call for Peace-Ecumenical Students & Youth for Sustainable Peace in Korean Peninsula. 

   WSCF Europe (WSCF-E) would like to invite SCM members from our Europe region to participate in this event and represent WSCF-E in Korea.

   Sunita Suna, WSCF-AP Regional Executive and Identity, Diversity and Dialogue (IDD) Program Leader, describes the event, as follows:

   “It’s timely to hold this regional level program together with the KSCF as we witness the historic Inter-Korean Summit for peace and reunification in Korean Peninsula. The international ecumenical student/ youth community’s presence will bring solidarity to the people of Korea as they pursue the peace process, but also our presence will help us in strengthening the network and relations with the students and youth of Korea, to work together for sustainable peace in the Korean peninsula. The presence of  international community in Seoul this year is also significant as KSCF is celebrating its 70^th anniversary of their ecumenical journey among the student community in campuses, Churches, and in Korean society. They will have an opportunity to celebrate together with KSCF witnessing KSCF’s mission and ministry for the last 70 years! We are very much looking forward to having you for the said program in Seoul, Korea.”

   Applicants must cover the airfare and the registration fees of $100 (USD). WSCF-AP and KSCF will take care of the board and lodging, and the expenses for the exposure to DMZ.

   Read the concept paper and a tentative schedule for more information on the program, and apply today. Online registration is open and the registration form can be filled in here. The deadline for applications is 30th June (extended).Please also email WSCF-E, at communications@wscf-europe.org, when filling-in the application, informing us about your participation.

   wscfe-editor

   June 19th, 2018 12:51 am | Continue Reading

7. Call for participants: Study Session “How is Peace Possible”

   ‘How is Peace Possible?’ 

   Study session,  22-26 October 2018, France

   

    

   What is the event about?

   “How is Peace Possible” conference will bring more than 25 young people from Europe and the Middle East to ask questions as – what is peace for Christianity and other religions? How do our laws/institutions  ensure peace?  We will discuss what is it to have peace on inter personal, community and institutional/country level. We will want to mobilize ourselves,  young people within Europe or worldwide to create awareness, explore concepts of peace, advocate, take action and commit to an everlasting world peace.

   During the study session we will approach the topic from different perspectives. We will speak about case studies and invite you as our participants to contribute your own experience. Finally we hope to find ways to get actively engaged for peace, we will provide you with toolboxes that help you to become ambassadors of peace in your home countries.

   Peace is the ability to respect differences within our diverse global community transcending the sovereignty of nations. Peace on earth begins in the heart of each person. It is first of all our hearts that have to be changed- welcoming a peace that will spread out and be communicated from one person to another.

    

   Achieve inner peace and thousands around you will be saved.

   (Seraphim of Sarov, a Russian monk, 1759-1833) .

    

   Peace ensures human dignity and guarantees humanity is preserved for future generations. Sometimes it takes a generation to be great. You can be that generation.”

   Nelson Mandela

    

   Violence as a way of achieving racial justice is both impractical and immoral. I am not unmindful of the fact that violence often brings about momentary results. Nations have frequently won their independence in battle. But in spite of temporary victories, violence never brings permanent peace

   Martin Luther King, Jr.

    

   Where?

   France, Strasbourg, CoE European Youth Centre.

   Dates

   Arrival – Sunday 21 October and departure Saturday 27 October

   Who can attend?

   The study session is open to all member movements of WSCF-Europe and also to our partner youth organisations. This event is also open to a small number of members of WSCF from the Middle East region too.  

   Application details:

   Fill in  the application form by 8th September 2018 (extended).

   To check for available spaces, contact freely Christiane at programs@wscf-europe.org. 

   Financial contribution:

   • the participation fee is 50 €
   • Travel expenses are covered 100% under strict documentation requirements

   Organizers:

   

   Christiane Gebauer, WSCF-E Program Coordinator

   Zuzana Babicova, WSCF-E Chairperson

   Natia Tsintsadze, WSCF-E Executive

   Stefan Manevski (Educational Advisor, CoE)

   Ramy Farouk (WSCF Middle East representative)

   Elena Andreescu (SCM France)

   Kam Suan Mung (SCM Germany)

    

   The study session agenda is now available here.

   For any enquiries, contact the Study session Coordinator Christiane Gebauer programs2@wscf-europe.org.

   The project is financially supported by the Council of Europe Youth Department, the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe and the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Commission.

   

    

    

   wscfe-editor

   May 29th, 2018 12:33 am | Continue Reading

8. Francesca Vincenzi

   Francesca Vincenzi

   Communications and Office Intern

   Hi, my name is Francesca and I work as an intern of WSCF-E. I live in Italy and I am currently studying in Trento. My studies are in the area of linguistic intermediation for tourism and business, indeed I study English and German.

   I have known WSCF-E in 2018 and I’m glad to collaborate with this organization because I really share the same values and I’d like to give my contribution in order to enjoy a better world. With regard to my work experience, I have worked as entertainer in a summer camp of a church, furthermore I have given a little help, taking care of the bureaucracy in an representative office based in Umbria, where I come from.

   I spend my free time taking photos and riding; I love travel and discover new places and culture, taking pictures to some breath-taking view. I am also passionate about horses, I took part in some jumping competition but with the beginning of the university I had to interrupt my great passion. In the future I hope I will keep in touch with WSCF-E and to be part of this big community.

   wscfe-editor

   March 16th, 2018 3:28 am | Continue Reading

9. Call for the participant: ACT Alliance Assembly, Sweden 28 Oct-1 Nov 2018

   

   You can become the delegate of WSCF at the ACT Alliance General Assembly which will take place in Uppsala, Sweden from 28 October to 1 November 2018, under the theme “Hope in action – Putting People First”. The General Assembly is ACT Alliance’s highest decision-making body and highest representation of the life of ACT Alliance members, where delegates of ACT member organisations will determine the future strategic direction of ACT, elect ACT governance for the next term, review the membership model and statutes, as well as share experiences about issues facing the membership and worship together celebrating cultural diversity. The Assembly will close with a Joint Day with the WCC Executive Committee focused on Ecumenical Diakonia and Sustainable Development. Please regularly check our ACT assembly website for information and updates: www.actassembly.org

   Finances:  travel costs & conference fee will be covered jointly by WSCF and ACT Alliance

   How to apply?
   Please send the motivation letter to Zuzana Babicova at chair@wscf-europe by 11 March 2018 outlining your interest in the assembly and membership of the movement. This is a call for nomination open to members of WSCF-Europe network.

   wscfe-editor

   March 5th, 2018 12:44 pm | Continue Reading

10. We are searching for conference preparation team members!

    

    Volunteers are essential to the success of WSCF-E events. So join us and let us do something special together! We are looking for you to help us organize a conference on the topic How is Peace Possible, which will take place from 22 to 26 October 2018 in France! You can

    • become part of a team that, from April to October 2018, will prepare the conference;
    • take on a big responsibility with other volunteers and help this event be a success;
    • challenge yourself, develop new skills in public relations work, time management and team work and realize your potential;
    • contribute your own knowledge, experience and talents;
    • connect with other Christian students, gain experience working in an international team and have a fun time together.

    Preparations will include two in-person meetings of the volunteer leadership team in France-one in June and the other one shortly before the conference

    If you would like to get a taste of how it is to be in a Preparatory Committee, read this reflection by Pavlina Manavska, or this one by Annika Foltin, or this one by James Jackson.

    To apply to become a volunteer, please fill in the application form by  20 March 2018 (extended).

    We look forward to hearing from you and to create our team!

    wscfe-editor

    February 14th, 2018 6:47 pm | Continue Reading