Wokingham

Tomorrow (July 25) some 60 young people will come together in the Wokingham Borough for a week-long youth exchange which will see them taking part in a number of exciting activities.

The exchange, funded by the European Commission, will see young people from Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Palestine, Turkey, France, the Basque area of Spain and the Wokingham Borough explore the meaning of international citizenship.

This exciting event brings together young people from diverse backgrounds from around the world to actively explore international citizenship, co-operation, equality and diversity, rights and responsibilities, human rights and democracy through workshops, discussion groups and outdoor activities.

Cllr Malcolm Bryant, champion for Wokingham youth and leisure, said: “Some of these young people will be leaving virtual war zones to come together and learn about each others’ lives and cultures. They will have the chance to explore their differences and similarities and address the myths of stereotyping of people's ethnicity and beliefs. Through team work and shared experiences the young people will have the opportunity to discover and challenge their beliefs and attitudes as young adults living in the same world.

“It promises to be a fun and exciting week as well as a wonderful experience for all the young people and the Wokingham Borough is delighted to host such an important event.”

The young Wokingham people will be staying at Reading University during their week-long visit and will take part in a variety of fun activities including canoeing, raft building, street dance, African drumming, pottery, arts and crafts and traditional games from each country. Each day they will spend time taking part in workshops run by leaders from each of the different countries allowing them to explore issues around citizenship, security and identity.

They will also take part in a treasure hunt in London to find famous places of interest. The exchange will culminate with a farewell party generously hosted by the Irish Club in Reading.

Wokingham Borough Council