CASCAIS, PORTUGAL / ACCESSWIRE / November 27, 2024 / Zambia-based organization, “Circus Zambia”, is one of ten global grassroots recognized by the prestigious Intercultural Innovation Hub, a joint initiative of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and the BMW Group, implemented with the support of Accenture, during a Ceremony held in the framework of the 10th UNAOC Global Forum in Cascais, Portugal under the theme “United in Peace: Restoring Trust, Reshaping the Future – Reflecting on Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity”. The Forum convened prominent figures, political leaders, UN officials including the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, as well as representatives from civil society, academia, and the private sector, to share insights and reflect on the 20 years of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations’ impactful work.
Circus Zambia was selected for its project “Social Circus for Social Change,” which leverages the role of circus arts as a powerful tool to empower youth and foster inclusive, resilient communities. Led by young people from marginalized backgrounds, the initiative helps participants develop essential soft skills by creating tailored curricula, offering specialized training programmes, and establishing a mentorship framework that promotes discipline, trust, and mutual respect. Additionally, by providing pathways to sustainable revenue generation, the project not only impacts individuals by enhancing their personal and professional development but also contributes to the long-term socio-economic empowerment of their communities.
“Our participation in the Intercultural Innovation Hub is a strong testament to the positive impact we’re making and a clear sign that we’re moving in the right direction,” said Gift Chansa, Artistic Director and Co-founder of Circus Zambia.
The Intercultural Innovation Hub supports grassroots initiatives that promote intercultural dialogue and understanding, thereby contributing to peace, cultural diversity, and more inclusive societies. This year’s Ceremony was chaired by Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, UN Under-Secretary-General and the High Representative for UNAOC, and Ms. Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG People and Real Estate, Labour Relations Director.
Through the Intercultural Innovation Hub, Circus Zambia will receive a financial grant, as well as one year of capacity-building and mentorship support from UNAOC, the BMW Group, and Accenture, to help strengthen the “Social Circus for Social Change” project and its contribution towards a more inclusive society. This model of collaboration between the United Nations and the private sector creates a more profound impact, as partners provide their respective expertise to ensure the sustainable growth of each supported project.
Learn more about the project: https://interculturalinnovation.org/circus-zambia-social-circus-for-social-change
Media inquiries:
– Milena Pighi, TeamLead and Spokesperson Corporate Citizenship, BMW Group, Milena.PA.Pighi@bmw.de
– Mr. Alessandro Girola, Chief, Programming and Projects Unit, UNAOC, alessandro.girola@un.org
SOURCE: UNAOC
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