"Palestine: Sports for Life Empowers Communities with 'Khutwa-Step Up' Project" (Safe Spaces) Qalandia, Tulkarem, Bethlehem
In a remarkable initiative that began in July 2022 and continues to make a significant impact, Palestine: Sports for Life (PS4L) has been actively implementing its 'Khutwa-Step Up' project across six diverse locations in the North, South, and Mid regions of the West Bank. This collaborative endeavor, in partnership with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), has been transforming lives through the power of sports and education.
Under the guidance of the PS4L team, teachers from UNRWA schools have received specialized training, equipping them with the tools to lead two key programs central to the 'Khutwa-Step Up' project. 62 UNRWA school teachers & counselors (37 Female, 25 Male) benefited directly from the ToT and coaching by the PS4L senior instructors /trainers. These programs have been instrumental in fostering a sense of community, empowerment, and well-being among the residents of these areas.
One of the project's highlights has been the series of football3 events that unfolded from May through July. 300 (70% girls, 30% boys) participated in sports and gender events using football3 methodology. These events, held in Tulkarem, Sureef, Qalandia, and Aida, have not only brought the joy of sports to local communities but have also acted as platforms for unity and friendly competition. They have become vital spaces for individuals to connect and strengthen their bonds.
In addition to the football3 events, PS4L has been diligently working on establishing weekly safe spaces in Dheisha, Aida, Qalandia, and Tulkarem. These spaces serve as sanctuaries where mothers and daughters can come together, share experiences, and participate in activities that promote physical and emotional well-being. These gatherings have proven to be invaluable in fostering intergenerational connections and providing essential support networks. Three weekly sessions at the safe spaces for a total of 182 girls and women (Qalandia, Bethlehem, and Tulkarem) where they use their voice and speak up about issues they aren’t able to voice, an environment full of trust between them and the trainers. A total of 70 women and daughters, 25 women ages ranging from 39-50, and 45 female students ages ranging from 8-16, UNRWA Qalandia refugee camp at the child centers. A total of 50 students (40 female and 10 male) ranging from ages 10-16, at Tulkarem PS4L community center. A total of 62, 32 women ages ranging from 26-45 and 30 female students ages ranging from 10-20 in the south (Bethlehem) at Dheisheh refugee camp. Six trainers (5 female and 1 male) run the weekly sessions at the safe spaces. These sessions have been active since the beginning of the year up until the end of the year with ongoing weekly sessions. The 'Khutwa-Step Up' project exemplifies the transformative potential of sports and education in marginalized communities. It not only offers opportunities for physical activity but also serves as a catalyst for personal growth, community cohesion, and empowerment. PS4L, in collaboration with UNRWA, is continuing to make a positive impact on the lives of those residing in the West Bank, showcasing the profound effect that collective efforts can have on building stronger, more resilient communities.
Khutwa Video link: