| RO5 | Washing stories at the watermill | |
| Partner organization (who designed it) | Timiș County Youth Foundation | |
| Overall description (Tell us the story of this activity) | This activity takes participants to a working watermill, where they learn about the traditional way of washing clothes in nature. The sensory experience is used to talk about “washing away” the past, eco-practices, and collective memory. | |
| Total Duration: | 2.5 hours | |
| Group size: | 10-12 people | |
| List of materials: (from pens to papers to Wi-Fi to an elephant) | Natural soap, buckets, towels, traditional garments, water access, mats to sit on | |
| Activity’s objectives: (what do you want to achieve by delivering this activity) | Connect traditional ecological practices with symbolic reflectionExplore how we process and cleanse memoriesEncourage sensory learning in natural environments | |
| memory archive timeline: information, picture and link. e.g. short story. | Year: 1930s Summary: Before indoor plumbing, washing clothes was a communal ritual at village rivers or watermills. In the Banat region, women gathered weekly to clean, chat, and sing—these meetings served as emotional and cultural cleansing as much as physical. The watermill near Rudăria (Eftimie Murgu), still operational today, is one of the last witnesses of this practice. (In picture, one of the watermills near Rudăria)  | |
| Step-by-Step Description | ||
| Time: (mins) | Activity Description: Include all the steps needed, Include notes for the facilitation. | |
| 20 mins | Visit and Story: Guide explains the watermill’s history and purpose | |
| 30 mins | Demonstration of old laundry methods | |
| 60 mins | Try-it-yourself + Reflective Prompt: What memory would you wash away? | |
| 30 mins | Sharing circle + journaling | |
| Extra information we need to take into account. Notes for facilitation etc (in case needed) | ||
| Preparations for the activity: (what do you need to do, who needs to do it, etc.) | Location scouting: Arrange a visit to a nearby working watermill or river with historical value. Ensure access, safety barriers, and supervision. Materials: Bring eco-soap, washboards, basins, towels, traditional clothing or linens, rubber gloves (optional), and extra dry clothes. Facilitation: Partner with local elders or mill caretakers to share oral histories about laundry rituals and symbolism. Logistics: Check weather, transportation, and access to toilets/changing areas. | |
| Evaluation of the activity: (Describe how will you explore what worked, what did not, what should be changed, what as the impact, was the objective achieved and to what extent…) | Run a sensory reflection exercise: “What did you feel touching cold water?”“What do you want to ‘wash away’ today?” Participants can write or sketch reflections in small journals. End with a group circle: what modern activities do we ritualize like washing used to be? | |
| Expected Outcomes: What are the expected learning outcomes, social outcomes, or other benefits. Describe how it contributes to collecting and sharing socio-ecological memories. | Strong embodied experience of tradition and environmental context.Revival of place-based memories, especially water-related.Deepened appreciation for traditional eco-practices and their social function.Space for emotional release and symbolic reflection on personal or shared memory. | |
| Appendices (If relevant – handouts, internet links, etc.) | ||
Автор: admin
-
Washing stories at the watermill #2
-
Pickling emotions: A taste of the past #2
RO4 Pickling emotions: A taste of the past Partner organization (who designed it) Timiș County Youth Foundation Overall description (Tell us the story of this activity) In this unconventional workshop, participants learn how to pickle vegetables while connecting the process to emotional preservation. As each ingredient is prepared and jarred, participants reflect on emotional resilience, family recipes, and metaphors for coping with change.. Total Duration: 3 hours Group size: 6–10 List of materials: (from pens to papers to Wi-Fi to an elephant) Glass jars, vinegar, salt, herbs, vegetables, cutting boards, aprons Activity’s objectives: (what do you want to achieve by delivering this activity) Explore traditional food preservation methodsLink ecological practices to emotional well-beingEncourage metaphorical thinking and sharing personal stories memory archive timeline: information, picture and link. e.g. short story. Year: 1947
Summary: In post-war Romania, with food shortages and harsh winters, families relied heavily on preserving vegetables through pickling. Recipes were passed down orally—cabbage, green tomatoes, and cucumbers fermented with herbs in barrels. These survival strategies created strong bonds between generations and sparked symbolic traditions, like offering pickled goods during seasonal family gatherings. Step-by-Step Description Time: (mins) Activity Description: Include all the steps needed, Include notes for the facilitation. 20 mins Intro and Metaphor: What do you want to preserve? 30 mins Pickling Demo (facilitator or guest elder) 60 mins Hands-on activity: Participants create pickled jars 30 mins Storytelling while sealing jars: “What emotion/memory are you pickling?” 20 mins Wrap-up and group sharing Extra information we need to take into account. Notes for facilitation etc (in case needed) Preparations for the activity: (what do you need to do, who needs to do it, etc.) Logistics: Secure a space with tables and access to a sink. Purchase jars, vegetables (e.g., cucumbers, peppers, cauliflower), vinegar, herbs, and salt.
Symbolic tools: Prepare cards where participants write the “emotion” or memory they are preserving.
Facilitation: Invite someone with experience in traditional pickling to explain practical and cultural aspects of the process.
Safety: Ensure food hygiene, gloves, and allergen awareness.Evaluation of the activity: (Describe how will you explore what worked, what did not, what should be changed, what as the impact, was the objective achieved and to what extent…) Participants share their “emotional pickle” metaphorically in a group circle: “This jar contains…”“If I opened this in the future, I would remember…” Use journaling prompts and voice notes (optional) for deeper personal reflection.
Collect stories, photos, and short clips for use in the digital memory archive.Expected Outcomes: What are the expected learning outcomes, social outcomes, or other benefits. Describe how it contributes to collecting and sharing socio-ecological memories. Emotional processing via metaphor and sensory engagement.Reviving preservation knowledge as a form of sustainability.
Personal storytelling linked to food memory and seasonal practices.Sense of collective reflection and healing through a slow, communal act.Appendices (If relevant – handouts, internet links, etc.) -
From earth to form: Clay & memory at the Village Museum #2
RO3 From earth to form: Clay & memory at the Village Museum Partner organization (who designed it) Timiș County Youth Foundation Overall description (Tell us the story of this activity) A day at the open-air Village Museum that includes a guided walk through traditional houses, followed by a clay workshop where participants model objects inspired by rural life. The activity blends observation, storytelling, and hands-on creativity. Total Duration: 4 hours Group size: 10-20 participants List of materials: (from pens to papers to Wi-Fi to an elephant) Natural clay, modeling tools, wet wipes, aprons, printed photos for inspiration Activity’s objectives: (what do you want to achieve by delivering this activity) Connect with heritage through tactile experienceUse observation to inspire creativityPromote traditional techniques and natural materials memory archive timeline: information, picture and link. e.g. short story. Year: 1955 Summary: Traditional potters in Horezu, Romania, have passed down unique clay crafting methods for centuries. In 1955, their craft was recognized at national artisan fairs, and their spiral-and-rooster motifs became emblematic. Today, Horezu ceramics are UNESCO-recognized for preserving both ecological clay practices and cultural storytelling. Step-by-Step Description Time: (mins) Activity Description: Include all the steps needed, Include notes for the facilitation. 45 mins Guided tour of the Museum 15 mins Discussion: What impressed you? What did you see in the houses? 90 mins Clay Workshop: Create an item inspired by the visit (a mug, figurine, tool, symbol) 30 mins Exhibit & Share: Each person presents their piece 30 mins Reflection Circle: Cultural meaning, ecology, and tactile learning Extra information we need to take into account. Notes for facilitation etc (in case needed) Preparations for the activity: (what do you need to do, who needs to do it, etc.) Partnerships: Coordinate with the Village Museum to organize a guided tour focusing on traditional rural objects and their meanings.
Materials: Prepare natural clay, hand wipes, carving sticks, small bowls of water, aprons, and mats to work on.
Inspiration: Print photos of traditional ceramics, cooking tools, and spiritual artifacts to spark ideas.
Facilitation: Partner with a local ceramicist who can guide the modeling process and explain traditional techniques.Evaluation of the activity: (Describe how will you explore what worked, what did not, what should be changed, what as the impact, was the objective achieved and to what extent…) Use a creative reflection gallery where all pieces are displayed with a small note: “Inspired by…”“I chose this object because…” Ask participants what working with clay felt like and if the object they created reminds them of anything from their childhood or family.
Facilitator documents verbal and visual expressions for reporting.Expected Outcomes: What are the expected learning outcomes, social outcomes, or other benefits. Describe how it contributes to collecting and sharing socio-ecological memories. Embodied learning through tactile engagement with a natural material.Increased awareness of heritage conservation and rural ways of living.Intercultural and intergenerational connections, as stories arise during the tour and crafting.Preservation of eco-traditional techniques as living knowledge. Appendices (If relevant – handouts, internet links, etc.) -
The meaning of “Mărțișor” #2
RO2 The meaning of “Mărțișor” Partner organization (who designed it) Timiș County Youth Foundation Overall description (Tell us the story of this activity) A creative workshop where participants make mărțișoare (small talismans gifted on March 1st) and explore their meanings: rebirth, spring, femininity, and protection. The activity blends crafting with cultural storytelling. Total Duration: 2 hours Group size: 10–20 participants List of materials: (from pens to papers to Wi-Fi to an elephant) Red and white threads, pins, paper, glue, clay beads, recycled packaging Activity’s objectives: (what do you want to achieve by delivering this activity) Connect seasonal transitions with cultural ritualsPromote sustainable crafting using reused materialsFacilitate cross-cultural sharing memory archive timeline: information, picture and link. e.g. short story. Year: ~8th century (legendary origin) Summary: Folklore tells of a mythical hero who fought the forces of winter to rescue the Sun, imprisoned by a dragon. As he won, blood from his wounds mixed with the snow—thus the red and white colors of mărțișor. Since ancient Dacian times, this ritual object has been worn to protect the wearer and mark the rebirth of nature. (Photo of mărțișor hung in a tree as the tradition says.) Step-by-Step Description Time: (mins) Activity Description: Include all the steps needed, Include notes for the facilitation. 15 mins Introduction: Story of Mărțișor, showing old styles and meanings 20 mins Examples of spring symbols: Discussion on nature, femininity, resilience 60 mins Crafting session: Participants create their own mărțișoare 20 mins Sharing circle: What does your creation mean to you? 5 mins Wrap-up and photo sharing Extra information we need to take into account. Notes for facilitation etc (in case needed) Preparations for the activity: (what do you need to do, who needs to do it, etc.) Cultural research: Prepare a short introductory slideshow about the history and evolution of Mărțișor, including its pre-Christian origins.
Materials: Gather red and white yarn, safety pins, natural beads, small fabric or felt cutouts, recycled cardboard, glue, scissors, and pre-made examples for inspiration.
Facilitation: A facilitator or storyteller introduces Mărțișor traditions from various regions in Romania and Moldova.
Eco-touch: Encourage the reuse of old jewelry or craft leftovers in the making of each talisman.Evaluation of the activity: (Describe how will you explore what worked, what did not, what should be changed, what as the impact, was the objective achieved and to what extent…) Participants will pin their Mărțișor on a collective wall installation and write a short sentence: “My Mărțișor represents…” Use a group reflection session where participants share a spring-related memory or story from their family.
Collect visual documentation (photos of crafts + quotes) for memory archiving.Expected Outcomes: What are the expected learning outcomes, social outcomes, or other benefits. Describe how it contributes to collecting and sharing socio-ecological memories. Deeper understanding of the seasonal symbolism embedded in cultural rituals.Creative reuse of materials, encouraging zero-waste crafting.Increased pride in cultural identity and sharing it with others in a symbolic form.Boost in group cohesion through the creation of personalized, meaningful items. Appendices (If relevant – handouts, internet links, etc.) -
Threads of memory: Traditional sewing circle (“Șezătoare”) #2
RO1 Threads of memory: Traditional sewing circle (“Șezătoare”) Partner organization (who designed it) Timiș County Youth Foundation Overall description (Tell us the story of this activity) This activity revives the Romanian tradition of șezătoare, where people used to gather in the evenings to sew, weave, and tell stories. Participants are invited to bring fabric scraps, embroidery hoops, or traditional sewing kits and engage in stitching simple patterns while discussing ecological and cultural memories, family traditions, and intergenerational knowledge. It’s a creative, slow-paced way to build community and reflect on the value of traditional crafts in a fast-changing world. Total Duration: 2.5 hours Group size: 8-12 people List of materials: (from pens to papers to Wi-Fi to an elephant) Embroidery hoops, thread, cloth, needles, cushions, chairs, hot tea, speaker/music Activity’s objectives: (what do you want to achieve by delivering this activity) Encourage intergenerational and intercultural dialogueFoster mindfulness and emotional connection through slow, repetitive activityHighlight sustainable practices and textile reusePreserve traditional techniques memory archive timeline: information, picture and link. e.g. short story. Year: 1920s Summary: In many Romanian villages during the interwar period, women gathered by lamplight in long winter evenings to embroider traditional motifs on shirts and pillowcases. These gatherings, or șezători, were not just practical—they were social hubs where folk stories, songs, and ecological wisdom about plants, seasons, and sustainability were shared orally. (Picture of an old șezătoare somewhere in Moldova, 1920s) Step-by-Step Description Time: (mins) Activity Description: Include all the steps needed, Include notes for the facilitation. 20 mins Welcome and context: Introduction to the șezătoare tradition, showing old photos and stories. 30 mins Demonstration: A guest (e.g. elder or craftsperson) demonstrates simple stitches and explains symbolic patterns. 60 mins Group sewing & sharing: Participants sew while talking in pairs or small groups about ecological memories. 30 mins Reflection circle: Participants display their work and share what they talked about or learned. 10 mins Closing notes and documentation: Photos, quotes, or audio may be collected for the memory archive. Extra information we need to take into account. Notes for facilitation etc (in case needed) Preparations for the activity: (what do you need to do, who needs to do it, etc.) Venue setup: Choose a warm, intimate indoor space, ideally decorated with traditional textiles, and with enough chairs arranged in a circle to foster conversation.
Materials: Prepare embroidery hoops, fabric squares, threads in traditional colors (red, blue, black, white), thimbles, needles, scissors, and handouts with a few Romanian folk motifs (and their meanings).
Facilitation: Invite a local artisan or elder who knows traditional embroidery to co-lead the activity and offer mini tutorials.
Atmosphere: Prepare calming background music (Romanian folk instrumental) and offer herbal tea or fruit infusion to create a cozy, slow-paced environment.Evaluation of the activity: (Describe how will you explore what worked, what did not, what should be changed, what as the impact, was the objective achieved and to what extent…) Use a “stitch & share” reflection circle where each participant explains the meaning of their embroidered piece and what they learned during the session.
Provide short written feedback cards with prompts like: “Something I learned today…”
“Something that reminded me of home…” Facilitators can document emotional engagement, social bonding, and discussions using a feedback logbook or group photos.Expected Outcomes: What are the expected learning outcomes, social outcomes, or other benefits. Describe how it contributes to collecting and sharing socio-ecological memories. Development of fine motor skills and mindfulness through a repetitive, meditative task.Increased appreciation for textile reuse and heritage craft.Intergenerational learning: younger participants gain cultural insight; older participants feel valued for their knowledge.Strengthened community bonds through collective, reflective crafting. Appendices (If relevant – handouts, internet links, etc.) -
Food Heritage Workshop – (Soutzoukos) A Sweet Tradition of Sustainability #2
DEKAPLUS.5 Food Heritage Workshop – (Soutzoukos) A Sweet Tradition of Sustainability Partner organization (who designed it) DEKAPLUS Overall description (Tell us the story of this activity) Soutzoukos is a classic Cypriot sweet made from grape must and almonds that is typically served during the grape harvest season. The workshop brings together young people and elders to learn how this unique delicacy is made while also exploring its historical and ecological significance. Elders will relate to stories about how soutzoukos has long been used to reduce food waste by utilising grape must, a byproduct of wine production. Participants see an overview of the step-by-step process of preparing soutzoukos with sustainable methods and locally sourced materials, fostering a connection to Cyprus’ agricultural past Total Duration: 2 hours Group size: 8-10 List of materials: (from pens to papers to Wi-Fi to an elephant) Local ingredients for soutzouko traditional recipe Printed visuals of old photos depicting the making of soutzoukos Recipe sheets and informational handouts on the ecological history of soutzoukos A camera to document the activity (optional). Activity’s objectives: (what do you want to achieve by delivering this activity) To teach youth the traditional process of making soutzoukos, emphasizing its historical and cultural significance in Cyprus.To highlight soutzoukos as an example of sustainability by showcasing how grape must, a by-product of winemaking, is repurposed, minimizing food waste. To foster intergenerational learning by having elders share their ecological memories related to grape harvesting and traditional food practices. memory archive timeline: information, picture and link. e.g. short story. The Village Grape Harvest and Soutzoukos in 1980s
Short Summary: Elders recount how their families’ repurposed leftover grape must after winemaking to make soutzoukos, creating a treat for the entire community while minimizing waste. Engraving of grape harvest in Cyprus, published in the 1860sStep-by-Step Description Time: (mins) Activity Description: Include all the steps needed, Include notes for the facilitation. 20 mins STEP 1. (Introduction and Storytelling): Learners will travel to a local Soutzoukos workshop. Older members of the group should introduce the historical and ecological importance of soutzoukos and share personal stories. 60 mins STEP 2. (Preparing the Grape Syrup and threading the nuts): Workshop staff will demonstrate the steps to make the sweet while youth can take notes/ draw the process. 20 mins STEP 3. (Dipping and Drying): Once the syrup is ready, workshop staff dip the threaded nuts into the syrup multiple times to build up layers. After each dip, the sticks are hung to dry. Staff explain the importance of sunlight in the drying process. 20 mins STEP 4: (Reflection and Tasting): After completing the process, participants taste pre-made soutzoukos and reflect on the activity. Feedback is gathered on what they found meaningful.. Extra information we need to take into account. Notes for facilitation etc. (if needed) -Caution preparation, e.g protection and caution around stoves and heat. Preparations for the activity: (what do you need to do, who needs to do it, etc.) Find a venue/house/ traditional factory or restaurant willing to demonstrate the process with us. Have recording devices ready to capture stories and reflections. Evaluation of the activity: (Describe how you will explore what worked, what did not, what should be changed, what is the impact, was the objective achieved and to what extent…) Conduct a short survey or group discussion to collect participants’ understanding of soutzoukos-making, its cultural significance, and its role in reducing food waste.Note how well participants understood the connection between soutzoukos-making and sustainability. Expected Outcomes: What are the expected learning outcomes, social outcomes, or other benefits. Describe how it contributes to collecting and sharing socio-ecological memories. Participants will learn how soutzoukos is made and understand its historical and ecological significance.Strengthened intergenerational connections through storytelling and hands-on collaboration.The workshop promotes sustainability and highlights the closed-loop natureof traditional Cypriot food practices, where no part of the harvest is wasted, and by-products are repurposed creatively and sustainably. Appendices (If relevant – handouts, internet links, etc.) -
Reviving the Olive Tradition : Tree Planting and Harvesting #2
DEKAPLUS.4 Reviving the Olive Tradition : Tree Planting and Harvesting Partner organization (who designed it) DEKAPLUS Overall description (Tell us the story of this activity) This activity focusses on the traditional practice of planting and harvesting olive trees in Cyprus, and participants learn about the olive tree’s cultural, historical, and ecological significance. Participants will visit an olive grove to plant young olive trees, learn about the harvesting process, and how olives have influenced Cyprus’s ecology and economy over time. The practice also includes recollections from elders who have personally experienced olive picking in the past. Total Duration: 3 hours Group size: 10 List of materials: (from pens to papers to Wi-Fi to an elephant) Young olive tree saplingsShovels and gardening tools (e.g., gloves, watering cans, trowels)Olive baskets (for harvesting)Traditional harvesting sticks or toolsInformation sheets or small booklets about the history of olive trees in Cyprus Activity’s objectives: (what do you want to achieve by delivering this activity) To educate participants about the ecological, economic, and cultural importance of the olive tree in Cyprus’s history. To engage youth in hands-on activities like planting and harvesting, connecting them to traditional agricultural practices. To promote intergenerational learning, allowing elders to share personal experiences and stories related to olive cultivation. memory archive timeline: information, picture and link. e.g. short story. The history of Olive Harvests in the 1950s Short Summary: Cyprus is a Mediterranean island nation recognized for its rich cultural heritage and production of high-quality olive oils. Since ancient times, Cypriots have grown olive trees and produced olive oil
Crushing olives in a traditional olive mill, in the 1950s. Photo by F.M. Yiaxis.Step-by-Step Description Time: (mins) Activity Description: Include all the steps needed, Include notes for the facilitation. 30 mins STEP 1. (Introduction and Story Sharing) Elders share stories about the importance of olive trees to the community. 60 mins STEP 2. (Tree Planting) Youth and elders will work together to plant young olive trees in an open field or existing olive grove. 60 mins STEP 3. (Olive Harvesting) Youth will work together to collect olives in baskets, under the guidance of elders, who will explain how the harvest process has changed over the years. 30 mins STEP 4: (Reflection and Discussion) At the end of the activity, participants will gather to reflect on their experience of planting and harvesting olives. They will discuss the importance of preserving olive groves and sustainable agriculture in Cyprus. Extra information we need to take into account. Notes for facilitation etc. (if needed) – Preparations for the activity: (what do you need to do, who needs to do it, etc.) Facilitators: Choose an olive grove or farm with accessible land where tree planting can be done. Brief the elders on how they can share their stories during the activity, highlighting personal memories and the history of olive harvesting in Cyprus. Set up a comfortable, shaded area for the reflection and discussion phase. Evaluation of the activity: (Describe how you will explore what worked, what did not, what should be changed, what is the impact, was the objective achieved and to what extent…) Gather feedback from participants by asking: “What did you learn about the importance of olive trees in Cyprus today?”Observe how participants interact with the elders and how well they understand the significance of olive trees in the cultural context. Expected Outcomes: What are the expected learning outcomes, social outcomes, or other benefits. Describe how it contributes to collecting and sharing socio-ecological memories. Youth will learn about the ecological and cultural significance of olive trees in Cyprus.Stronger bonds between generations, as youth and elders work together to preserve a tradition.A deeper understanding of sustainable farming practices, contributing to local environmental conservation. Appendices (If relevant – handouts, internet links, etc.) -
Collaborative Art Project- Environmental Memories collage #2
DEKAPLUS.3 Collaborative Art Project- Environmental Memories collage Partner organization (who designed it) DEKAPLUS Overall description (Tell us the story of this activity) This activity invites participants to collaborate on a creative collage using recycled materials (e.g paper, cardboard) that visually represents the socio-ecological history of Cyprus. Elders provide stories and memories about significant environmental landmarks and events, while youth transform these narratives into a collage. Total Duration: 3 hours Group size: 5 youth , 5 elders List of materials: (from pens to papers to Wi-Fi to an elephant) Recycled magazines, newspapers, various cutoutsSketchpads/notebooks and pencilsScissors and glueDigital camera or smartphone for documentation (optional) Activity’s objectives: (what do you want to achieve by delivering this activity) To document and share ecological memories through a creative medium.To foster intergenerational collaboration and cultural exchange.To inspire youth to engage with environmental conservation and storytelling. memory archive timeline: information, picture and link. e.g. short story. The Akrotiri Marsh Cyprus since the 1980s Short Summary: Elder recounts her childhood visits to the Akrotiri Salt Lake. Akrotiri Marsh is a section of the unique Akrotiri wetland complex on the Akrotiri Peninsula in Limassol. The marsh is designated a Ramsar Site, an Important Bird Area (IBA), and a Special Protection Area (SPA). The area is significant for uncommon bird species, amphibians, invertebrates, and plants. The marsh has been associated with mankind for generations, since it provided raw materials for the traditional activity of basketry and grazing for the animals of the residents of Akrotiri village.
Flamingos in Akrotiri Marsh. Photo credit: A. Stoecker 2014Step-by-Step Description Time: (mins) Activity Description: Include all the steps needed, Include notes for the facilitation. 20 mins STEP 1. (Introduction and storytelling session) 30 mins STEP 2. (Brainstorm and sketching) 100 mins STEP 3. (Collage creation reflecting storytelling– breaks in between) 30 mins STEP 4: (Final touches and group Reflection) Extra information we need to take into account. Notes for facilitation etc. (if needed) -Facilitate a reflection circle where participants share what they found meaningful at the end. Preparations for the activity: (what do you need to do, who needs to do it, etc.) Facilitators: Prepare prompts for storytelling and visual brainstorming.Research and gather reference photos for Cyprus-specific landmarks, areas which hold ecological significance.Organize materials in advance. Evaluation of the activity: (Describe how you will explore what worked, what did not, what should be changed, what is the impact, was the objective achieved and to what extent…) Conduct a short survey: “What did you learn about Cyprus’s ecology through this activity?”Ask elders if the collage accurately represents their memories/stories. Expected Outcomes: What are the expected learning outcomes, social outcomes, or other benefits. Describe how it contributes to collecting and sharing socio-ecological memories. Youth understand Cyprus’s ecological history.Participants develop collaborative skills through a creative activity.Strengthened relationships between generations through shared storytelling and creativity.Increased appreciation of cultural and ecological heritage. Appendices (If relevant – handouts, internet links, etc.) -
Community Mapping Workshop – Cyprus’ Eco Heritage #2
DEKAPLUS. 2 Community Mapping Workshop – Cyprus’ Eco Heritage Partner organization (who designed it) DEKAPLUS Overall description (Tell us the story of this activity) Participants (elders and youth) create a collaborative map showcasing landmarks tied to Cyprus’s ecological and cultural history, such as ancient walls, archaeological sites and carob groves. Total Duration: 3 hours Group size: 10 participants List of materials: (from pens to papers to Wi-Fi to an elephant) Large map of Cyprus or blank poster Colouring pencils and markers Sticky notes Wi-fi for research Activity’s objectives: (what do you want to achieve by delivering this activity) Highlight important ecological and cultural sites in Cyprus, fostering environmental awareness. Foster intergenerational collaboration in a creative way through this activity. memory archive timeline: information, picture and link. e.g. short story. Carob Harvesting Traditions in the 1960s Short Summary: Carob trees have been farmed in Cyprus for generations, from ancient times. Carob pods, sometimes known as “black gold,” have historically been utilised as a currency to be traded for their great worth. The tree represents fertility, resilience, and value in Cypriot culture. It has become an iconic symbol of the island’s agricultural heritage, as well as a monument to the people’s resourcefulness.
Old Carob Mill Workshop, by Pixabay.comStep-by-Step Description Time: (mins) Activity Description: Include all the steps needed, Include notes for the facilitation. 10 mins STEP 1. (Introduction to the mapping project and its focus on Cyprus’s heritage.) 30 mins STEP 2. (Elders mark key sites of ecological memories on the map, like old wells or carob tree forests.) 40 mins STEP 3. (Youth annotate and add visual elements like drawings or notes.) 60 mins STEP 4. (Group discussion on changes and threats to these landmarks.) 40 mins STEP 5 (Reflection and discussion of the final results) Extra information we need to take into account. Notes for facilitation etc. (if needed) -Facilitate a dialogue on environmental preservation. Preparations for the activity: (what do you need to do, who needs to do it, etc.) Facilitators need to: Print large maps or create a blank one.Research historical environmental features to guide participants.Prepare materials for participants. (pencils, sticky notes etc) Evaluation of the activity: (Describe how you will explore what worked, what did not, what should be changed, what is the impact, was the objective achieved and to what extent…) Collect participant feedback on the map’s clarity and collaboration process.Review the number of memories from elders successfully documented by the youth. Expected Outcomes: What are the expected learning outcomes, social outcomes, or other benefits. Describe how it contributes to collecting and sharing socio-ecological memories. A tangible map illustrating Cyprus’s eco-heritage. Increased youth knowledge of ecological history and local conservation issues. Intergenerational collaboration between generations by working together. Appendices (If relevant – handouts, internet links, etc.) -
Eco-Crafts from Eco-friendly clays in Cyprus #2
DEKAPLUS.1 Eco-Crafts from Eco-friendly clays in Cyprus Partner organization (who designed it) DEKAPLUS Overall description (Tell us the story of this activity) This activity brings together youth and elders to create eco-crafts out eco-friendly clay found in Cyprus, such as air drying clay. Elders teach stories and methods for making sculptures and ornaments, while youth use these techniques to construct their own creations. The activity promotes sustainable practices by repurposing clay, protects cultural heritage, and encourages intergenerational collaboration. Total Duration: 3.5 hours Group size: 10 List of materials: (from pens to papers to Wi-Fi to an elephant) Eco friendly clayProtective gear (gloves, aprons)Tables and chairs for crafting stationsWhiteboard or flipchart for instructions Activity’s objectives: (what do you want to achieve by delivering this activity) Promote sustainable practices through the upcycling of clay.Foster intergenerational collaboration by sharing traditional crafting techniques and cultural stories.Preserve socio-ecological memories through documentation and digital archiving. memory archive timeline: information, picture and link. e.g. short story. The sculptor Nina Iakovou was one of the first Cypriots to take sculpture lessons at the School of Fine Arts in Athens, in the 1950s, where she studied under a number of prominent teachers in the field of Modern Greek Art at the time. Now, she has been creating clay sculptures for 60+ years.
Fragment of Traditional Cypriot Pottery, by Nina Iacovou Larnaca Archives – Phivos Stavrides FoundationStep-by-Step Description Time: (mins) Activity Description: Include all the steps needed, Include notes for the facilitation. 20 mins STEP 1. (Welcome and introductions.) Facilitator shares an overview of eco-crafting. 40 mins STEP 2. (Crafting Demonstration) Facilitator and elders demonstrate the process of creating crafts from clay. 90 mins STEP 3. (Collaborative Crafting) Youth and elders work together to create crafts using clay. 30 mins STEP 4: (Showcase and Documentation) Participants present their finished crafts, sharing what they learned during the process. 30 mins STEP 5: (Reflection and Closing) Extra information we need to take into account. Notes for facilitation etc. (if needed) -Use icebreakers to create a comfortable atmosphere. -Encourage participants to share what they learned. Preparations for the activity: (what do you need to do, who needs to do it, etc.) Facilitators to: Source eco-friendly clay* and ensure all tools and materials are ready.Set up crafting stations and ensure accessibility for all participants. *Disclaimer regarding “air-drying clays”: such clays are actually polymer based and are not eco-friendly. Please use natural clay and keep in mind that uncured clay (that has not been fired in a kiln) even if natural can only be used as decoration and not for eating utensils, which could cause harm Evaluation of the activity: (Describe how you will explore what worked, what did not, what should be changed, what is the impact, was the objective achieved and to what extent…) Conduct a short feedback survey or discussion: “What did you learn?”Ask participants how impactful the workshop was andlook for areas of improvement and execute accordingly. Expected Outcomes: What are the expected learning outcomes, social outcomes, or other benefits. Describe how it contributes to collecting and sharing socio-ecological memories. Youth and elders gain knowledge about sustainable practices and traditional crafts.Stronger intergenerational bonds and mutual respect.Increased awareness of the value of upcycling and reduced waste. Appendices (If relevant – handouts, internet links, etc.)