Our annual expert conference “Voices of Resilience” impressively demonstrated that self-efficacy is the key to actively shaping one's own future. Researchers, experts, and participants agreed that true resilience does not only arise from crisis management, but grows from visibility, recognition, and collective action. At the conference, we specifically asked what resilience means in concrete terms for vulnerable communities and why this space for exchange is so important.
“For me, resilience means helping communities whose vulnerability is further exacerbated by the war in Ukraine.”
— Anzhelika, CEO of Voices of Romni
“The workshop on food security in the Western Balkans showed me: Sharing knowledge about food with vulnerable groups not only brings cultures together but also strengthens minorities across society.”
— Kephi, Conference Participant
Practical workshops provided deep insights into working with self-efficacy and showcased innovative approaches that reflect the core of our work. For example, an art workshop showed participants how just a white sheet of paper and a few colored pencils can help reflect on and strengthen resilience. People in crisis or after traumatic events often find it difficult to express themselves verbally. Creating a space where creative expression is possible can open up ways to process trauma and stress.
The central goal of the conference was to give a voice to the most vulnerable communities in the middle of humanitarian crises. OlamAid works where minorities are most at risk due to humanitarian crises, providing these communities with a much-needed platform. Voices of Resilience brought together various actors from the humanitarian and political spheres to discuss solutions for successfully overcoming the challenges of helping disadvantaged groups in Europe and beyond.
We would like to express our warmest thanks to all participants, speakers, workshop organizers, and helpers for making this conference possible.
