On Saturday, September 21, 2024, the Agri-Youth team organized an engagement session at Wadi El Karm. The primary purpose of the meeting was to inform the community about the A’Risheh Know and Grow Center, which is an initiative born out of the Agri-Youth project. The meeting aimed to foster an understanding of the project’s objectives and to actively encourage local participation. The gathering lasted 2 hours and consisted of a presentation by the team and an open discussion.
The participants included the mayor of Wadi El Karm, the village parish priest along with a number of community members, including local farmers, youth, and families who would potentially benefit from the A’Risheh Know and Grow Center. The turnout demonstrated genuine interest from the community, as various segments of the population were represented. During the discussion, the community expressed both enthusiasm and curiosity about the project. They raised questions about how the center would function, and how it could contribute to local economic growth. Overall, there was a strong desire to learn more about how the center would address their specific needs and help empower youth and local farmers. The meeting resulted in a positive exchange, with a commitment from the Agri-Youth team to provide further information and tailored activities based on the community’s needs. The community agreed to organize follow-up meetings where they can participate in shaping future activities. This initial meeting was a foundational step in building trust with Wadi El Karm and ensuring the community feels involved in the future of the project.