A place to transform lives: Inside the Egyptian Red Crescent’s Zeinhom Community Centre

Where art meets education, resilience grows

From beaches to streets: 16,000 Cuban Red Cross volunteers save lives with first aid and rescue

The island of Cuba has a long history of prevention work in the face of emergencies such as earthquakes and the increasing number of severe tropical storms like Hurrican Ian in September 2022, or Oscar, in October 2024. The Cuban Red Cross lifeguard programme was established in 1959, when the first lifeguard schools were set up in Guanabo and Varadero to prevent drowning accidents. “Our specialists are trained in victim care, so they can save a person's life within the first ten minutes,” explains Luis Enrique Calderón Rodríguez, Operations and Relief Coordinator for the Cuban Red Cross. “All of these individuals must complete a specialized first aid course so that they can respond to disasters, floods and water-related incidents, and provide adequate care to potential victims throughout the country,” adds Calderón.Around 16,000 of the Cuban Red Cross's 39,000 volunteers are dedicated to rescue and salvage work and one of their main tasks is to prevent drownings on beaches, where every year thousands of local visitors and tourists enjoy the sea in their free time. A girl who saves livesChildren also play an active role in prevention. Many of today's rescuers started volunteering at a young age. One of the volunteers off to an early start is Angelina González who is a passionate advocate of first aid in Varadero. She has been an active member of the Cuban Red Cross Interest Group at Martín Klein Schiller Elementary School for the past three years. At 11 years old, Angelina has mastered the technique of abdominal compressions, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, and knows how to transport an injured person on a stretcher. She also knows how to protect herself during earthquakes or thunderstorms. “This knowledge has helped us inform family members and friends who don't know about first aid,” says Angelina. Simple actions such as knowing emergency numbers, providing the exact address and waiting for the operator to end the call are among the things that the children practice in the interest group. “In case of drowning at the beach, we must pay attention to safety measures such as flags,"Angelina explains. “The red flag indicates that swimming is absolutely prohibited, as it can be dangerous. The yellow flag means that you can swim, but with caution, as beach conditions could suddenly deteriorate. The green flag means that you can swim freely, as the sea will be calm.”Life-saving skills for the whole communityFirst aid training in Cuba is not only intended for Red Cross volunteers but also aims to provide everyone in the community with the skills to protect themselves and assist others when needed. One of the most powerful tools is reliable information. This educational network comprises newsletters, the dissemination of materials via WhatsApp, talks in children's circles, workshops in local institutions, and practical advice to families, schools and tourism companies. “With the support of Radio Varadero, informative and preventive messages are broadcast daily on radio magazines such as Sonido Azul,” says Yania Pérez Ballesté, the teacher who leads the interest group. “This is especially important in the summer months, when tourism increases, as does the risk of accidents on beaches and at recreation centres” she adds. Local authorities recognize the Cuban Red Cross as a key ally. “Even the president of the People's Power Council here in Varadero jokingly says that the Red Cross is her advisor because she consults with us whenever there is an issue related to health or hygiene,” says Pérez. The professor also highlights the creation of a brigade to reestablish family contact and search for people in evacuation centres in the event of a cyclone or other crisis or disaster.The Cuban Red Cross's first aid work in Varadero has resulted in the creation of a living network that includes:Children who share what they have learnt with those around them.Educational staff facilitate the dissemination of information and coordinate talks and workshops.Radio stations and social media platforms that disseminate preventive messages. Rescue teams that can act in seconds.From Angelina's enthusiasm in explaining how to interpret the beach flags to the lifeguard's quick action in performing a vital maneuver, every action, no matter how small, contributes to creating a safer community.Knowing first aid and basic lifesaving skills around water is becoming increasingly important as climate-related events become less predictable, with storms becoming more frequent and severe, and storm surges becoming more intense.

Red Cross youth camps in the Americas: A chance to grow, celebrate and keep the flame of humanity alive

At a time when the challenges humanity faces seem increasingly complex, and the only consistent feature of modern life is rapid societal and technology change, the creativity and energy of young people is more critical than ever. Young people have a unique ability to adapt, propose innovative solutions, and redefine humanitarian leadership for the future—yet they often face an uncertain path, unsure of how to make a meaningful impact.That’s why National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies organize youth camps that give them opportunities to learn, grow, and build lasting connections, trusting that they will become the next generation of humanitarian leaders.Latin America is one of the regions where this tradition is especially strong: every year, hundreds of young people come together to share cultures, celebrate local identities, and connect with others from the youth movement, both within their countries and around the world.2025 is no exception. As we mark International Youth Day, we share the story of this long-standing regional tradition, which is more relevant than ever."In the 1980s, several thematic volunteer networks were created, including the first aid and paramedic networks. This began to be used more in Central America, then spread throughout the continent. In fact, there were Central American first aid camps, as well as camps focusing on other topics. From there, youth networks and camps also emerged.”Andrés Morales, Thematic Lead for Volunteer Development and Youth Engagement for the IFRC in the Americas.Currently, there are three youth networks in the Americas: Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Not all countries hold the camps, and the frequency varies according to local capacity. However, in countries such as Mexico and Costa Rica, the camps have been held consistently over time and are held every year.This year, Costa Rican Red Cross welcomed seven delegations of young people from the Red Cross in Italy, Mexico, Panama, the United Kingdom, the United States, Suriname and Venezuela. From Costa Rica, there were more than 500 young people from all over the country.“The Red Cross youth programme in Costa Rica has been around for over 100 years. We have been running camps for over 50 years.”Dyanne Marenco, President of the Costa Rican Red Cross, during the Coatí 2025 camp in January this year.“We really enjoyed the recreational and cultural activities and spending time with fellow members from other National Societies.”Sergio Jaén , National Director of Red Cross Youth in Panama, who participated in the Costa Rican Red Cross camp.Uruguay, Panama and Chile are examples of countries that also held camps in the first months of this year to strengthen the technical and leadership skills of young volunteers.In Mexico, the Mexican Red Cross national youth camp is taking place at the time of this publication, from August 6 to 9.“We are gathering in Morelos, in Tepoztlán, with more than 1,500 young people from all states of the Republic. We will be spending four days sharing knowledge, emotions, and, among all of us, family ties.”Judith López, from the National Youth Coordination of Mexican Red Cross.What are the youth camps like?Every camp is unique, whether it lasts one day or three, or whether it involves dozens or hundreds of participants. The important thing is to create a space where people can meet and share.“It's a place where young people can develop, learn, grow a lot as individuals, and have fun while doing something good for others. For me, being a Red Cross volunteer is an opportunity to grow as a person and develop skills that can be useful in my personal life and in my future professional life.”Luisa Ana Paula Carrasco, a volunteer and participant in the Red Cross Youth camp in Chile.From Andrés' perspective, beyond the tents and cooking stoves, a Red Cross youth camp is a place where four major dimensions come together:1. Celebration of young people and their communitiesThe camps recognize and celebrate the diversity of young identities within the Red Cross Movement, as well as the power of young people in humanitarian action.Meals, customs, dances and music from different regions of each country are shared at the camps, enriching the experience and promoting enjoyment and healthy interactions.2. Sharing achievements and experiencesFrom environmental and migration initiatives to mental health and road safety campaigns, camps provide the perfect opportunity to showcase the successes of youth programmes and share experiences and insights with people from different places.3. Learning and growthFrom first aid to reproductive health education, young people gain the tools they need to make a positive impact in their communities.At the camps, young people facilitate practical workshops, disaster simulations, sports competitions, rallies involving physical and mental challenges, and cultural presentations. These activities strengthen personal growth and leadership skills.4. Connecting with other peopleThe most compelling reason to organise a camp is to meet people from different places and backgrounds who share the same Red Cross values.Connecting with young people from different places, including other countries and continents, broadens your worldview and inspires you to work towards your dreams and goals.“The Red Cross is a place where I feel safe to share my ideas, to share what I think, and to share what I have to contribute to society, knowing that these ideas will be heard and taken into consideration."Alexandra Fernández, volunteer and participant in the Uruguayan Red Cross youth camp.Why are these camps important?For Andrés, these spaces serve as a reminder that, even in times of crisis and disaster, there is a network of young people willing to support their communities and help those in need.Additionally, camps and youth programmes frequently provide opportunities for nurturing new leadership within the Red Cross. Many current board members began their journey in a youth programme. This shows, yet again, that investing in young people is investing in the future of humanitarian action.“What I have learned at the Red Cross is that it doesn't matter what color your skin is, how much money you have, or anything else, because we will always help those in need.”Allison Gutiérrez, a young volunteer and participant in the Costa Rican Red Cross youth camp.If you are a young volunteer interested in organizing a camp or similar activity, contact your nearest Red Cross branch. Sometimes all it takes is a little encouragement to make our dreams come true.Read more about Red Cross Red Crescent youth initiatives:Uruguayan Red Cross project sends life-saving message: the lives of young people cannot be left just to chance – suicide is preventable | IFRC

Overcoming barriers: Red Cross language classes help displaced Ukrainians open doors to a new life

Financial insecurity, unemployment, limited access to healthcare, and language barriers are everyday challenges for millions of people who fled Ukraine after the escalation of the conflict.While finding safety is a critical first step, the harder journey often begins after — rebuilding a life in a new country, surrounded by an unfamiliar language and culture.To support this journey, Red Cross National Societies in Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, and Romania have launched language programs that go far beyond grammar and vocabulary.These classes are helping displaced people from Ukraine find their voices — giving them the tools they need to access work, education, healthcare, and, perhaps most importantly, a sense of belonging.The projecthas been made possible by the Swiss Contribution to the European Union under the Rapid Response Fund. This initiative aims to reduce social and economic disparities within the European Union.‘At 57, I’m starting over’One of those taking part in the classes is Iryna, who never imagined she’d be learning a new language at 57 — or starting over in a new country. Now living in Latvia with her daughter-in-law and grandson, she attends Latvian courses run by the Latvian Red Cross.“I lack speaking practice, so I eagerly signed up,”she says. “We have a great teacher.”Iryna’s family fled Kharkiv when the conflict escalated, spending days sheltering in a village basement with other families before finally boarding crowded evacuation trains. Eventually, they made it to Latvia.Life in a new country hasn’t been easy. Back home, Iryna worked as a chief accountant. Now, she works as a cleaner in a theater — a job she is grateful for, even if it is far from her field. “To return to my profession, I need to know the language,” she explains.But she finds joy in small moments. “At the theater, I get to watch pre-premiere shows and chat with the actors,” she adds with a smile.‘I never thought I’d need another language'Vadym, 55, from Mykolaiv, fled Ukraine with his family after the conflict escalated. Their journey to Romania took three days. “It was difficult,” he recalls. “We had never been abroad before, so I never thought I’d need to learn another language.”Before the escalation of the conflict, Vadym worked at the port — a skilled job that remains in demand. But in Romania, the language barrier stands in the way of continuing in his profession.Now, he attends Romanian language classes organized by the Romanian Red Cross. “It is helpful. We talk about different topics in class, and now I can go to the store and explain myself at a basic level,” he says.‘I was afraid — how would I explain if my child got sick?’For nearly three years, Mila and her son have been living in Hungary after fleeing Ukraine. She still remembers the fear and the long queues at the border. Everything felt uncertain — and without speaking the language, even the simplest tasks felt overwhelming.“I was afraid — what if my child got sick? How would I explain things to a doctor?” she recalls.When Mila learned the Hungarian Red Cross offered free language classes, she joined right away.“I came to the course and really liked it,” she says. “I met other Ukrainians, learned a lot of useful things from them, and we started talking more.”Being able to practice Hungarian in a supportive space has made a big difference. “Now I can go to the store, the pharmacy, or any office on my own — and get things done,” she says.Mila’s confidence is growing with every lesson. “When I reach a better language level, I plan to find a job here,” she says, full of hope for a more stable future.‘To find a well-paid job without knowing the language is impossible’When the conflict escalated, Yuliia left Zaporizhzhia with her two children, hoping to give them a safer life.“I wanted my children to grow up in peace, in a country without fear,” she says.Later, her mother joined them in Lithuania. Both women found work as cleaners — honest, important work that helped them start over. But Yuliia knows that speaking the language is key to opening more doors.“To find a well-paid job without knowing the language is impossible,” she says.That is why she and her mother now attend Lithuanian language classes run by the Lithuanian Red Cross.“I can already talk to people who do not speak Russian,” Yuliia shares. “It is still hard to speak freely, but I understand.”For Yuliia, Iryna, Vadym and Mila — and for many others taking part in these classes learning the local language is not just about communication. It is about regaining control, rebuilding dignity — and taking the first steps toward a future they can shape themselves.

From the classroom to the frontlines: In the wake of crisis, ‘Teacher Honey’ transforms from educator to emergency responder

For 13 years, Honey Thin, affectionately known to her students and colleagues as “Teacher Honey,” has dedicated her life to education.As vice principal and head of the English Department at Sunflower Myanmar International School in Mandalay, she has played a crucial role in shaping young minds, teaching English under the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) program.But when a devastating earthquake struck her hometown of Mandalay, Teacher Honey’s calling extended beyond the classroom. She vividly recalls the day the earthquake struck on 28th March, 2025.“I was at school after the lunch break, about to return to my classroom when the ground started shaking,” she recalls.Honey quickly reassured two colleagues she was with to stay calm, thinking it was just a small tremor like the ones she had experienced before.However, the shaking quickly intensified so she and her team took cover under their desks for protection.When the tremors subsided, a fellow teacher opened the door and urged everyone to evacuate immediately without stopping to collect any belongings. Together, they led more than 400 students, with age ranging from five to fifteen, down from the third floor. Thankfully, all of them made it out safely without injury.This was not Honey's first experience with relief work. In September 2024, she and her school team coordinated with the Myanmar Red Cross to provide basic relief supplies to flood-affected families across the Mandalay region when Typhoon Yagi hit.This earlier collaboration, which was also her first exposure to MRCS, left a strong impression on her and solidified her decision to take a more active role when the earthquake struck.“Before the earthquake, my days were filled with teaching, studying, managing teaching staff, and communicating with parents,” Honey shares. However, witnessing the scale of devastation after the earthquake, she felt a deep urge to do more.Just ten days after the disaster, she joined the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) as a volunteer, eager to support the relief and recovery of her community.“I’m just an ordinary person. At first, I felt lost and frustrated during the earthquake, unsure whether to stay or escape. But I calmed myself and found resilience. I realized the community needed us and decided to help in any way I could. That’s why I chose to volunteer with the Red Cross.”Today, Teacher Honey balances her role in education with her commitment to humanitarian work. She supports earthquake response efforts by spraying pesticides to prevent disease, assisting at mobile clinics, distributing purified drinking water, and conducting community assessments to identify urgent needs.Through all these experiences, she has witnessed a broad range of humanitarian challenges beyond her classroom.“In just six days, I have worked across six different locations and taken on six different duties. I’m both excited and proud of myself,” Honey reflects.After the earthquake, Teacher Honey continues teaching her students online, ensuring their learning remains uninterrupted.Despite the ongoing challenges caused by the earthquake, Teacher Honey has continued her commitment to education through online teaching. Using digital platforms, she connects with her students, ensuring that their learning journey is not interrupted even amid the disaster’s aftermath.For Teacher Honey, education is not just about lessons in a classroom, it is a means of providing stability, hope, and life skills, even in times of crisis. This approach aligns with the principles of RED Education, a global initiative that brings together the IFRC network’s efforts to support education in formal and non-formal spaces for children and young people before, during and after disasters or crises. The approach promotes community resilience, knowledge-sharing, and community empowerment.“Before, my world was mostly limited to the classroom—a small space. Now, I see the broader impact we can have, even among broken buildings and disrupted lives.”

World Water Day 2025: Clean water is about safety, health and so much more

For first-grader Alif Aqabat, a young girl from the Yemeni city of Dhamar, school should have been a place of learning and growth. Instead, it became a daily struggle.“I couldn’t use the bathrooms or drink the water,” she recalled. “I told my mom I couldn’t stay because it wasn’t clean.”Alif wasn’t alone. Asmaa School for Girls in Dhamar was facing a major hygiene crisis. The restrooms were in poor condition, and the drinking water wasn’t safe. Teachers, like Afrah Al-Ashwal, who had been educating students there for 15 years, saw firsthand how this impacted the children.“We had lots of problems, especially students catching diseases,” she explained.But change was coming. Thanks to a dedicated water and sanitation project launched by the Yemen Red Crescent, the school underwent a much-needed renovation. New water taps were installed, and proper plumbing was put in place for the bathrooms.The renovations were one of several initiatives by the Yemen Red Crescent Society to upgrade or install new clean water and sanitation services in communities where needs are most acute. The work is supported through a joint initiative of the European Union and the IFRC known as the Programmatic Partnership.At the Asmaa School for Girls, the transformation was immediate.“The project has solved many problems in the school, especially regarding student health,” said Principal Ghada El Shazmi. “It has helped create an attractive and healthy environment for learning.”For Alif, the change meant one thing—she could finally return to school.“One day, I found out they installed clean water taps and fixed the restrooms,” she said. “So I told my mom I wanted to go back.”Now, Alif is back in school, learning, growing, and dreaming of a bright future. A simple change—clean water—made all the difference.From drought to hope: bringing clean water to Yemen’s Al Souq Al JadidIn another Yemeni community, a similar story is unfolding.For years, the women of Al Souq Al Jadid in Yemen’s Kharif District followed a daily routine that was both exhausting and frustrating. With water containers balanced on their heads, they walked long distances to wells—only to find them dry. Sometimes, they would have to trek even farther in search of another water source, their efforts often met with disappointment.Washing clothes was another struggle. Women carried heavy bundles of laundry up to the wells, hoping to clean their families’ clothes, only to discover there was no water. When that happened, their only option was to journey nearly a kilometer away to three rainwater pools.There, they would spend half the day washing blankets, utensils, and clothes—an arduous task made harder by the sheer distance and time involved.Water was a necessity, not just for drinking but for every aspect of life—cleaning the house, washing dishes, doing laundry, and even keeping animals hydrated.Yet, access to clean drinking water was never guaranteed. By the afternoon, water supplies often run low, forcing another trip to the well. The alternative was drinking from a rust-contaminated water tank, turning every sip into a health risk.The consequences of drinking from such contaminated sources can be serious – even deadly. Contaminated water sources in Yemen have led to outbreaks of diseases such as cholera, and other health issues such as kidney problems and other bacterial infections.This is one of the reasons, the Yemen Red Crescent and the Programmatic Partnership embarked on an ambitious project to help alleviate the situation in Al Souq Al Jadid.Over a period of five months, the Yemen Red Crescent oversaw the installation of a reliable water distribution system that is now bringing clean water directly to homes. Today, more than 8,000 people—1,200 families across 900 households—benefit from the project.Gone are the days of waiting for mobile water tankers, uncertain of when the next supply would arrive. Now, water is pumped to a collection tank in Al-Birr and then distributed directly to homes in Al Souq Al Jadid.For the community, this project has been life-changing. The struggles of collecting water from distant wells are over. Women no longer spend hours on the road or at rainwater pools. And most importantly, families now have safe, clean water to drink.“We’re grateful we no longer go to wells,” one resident shared. “Today, we drink clean water, and everyone knows it’s much better than what we had before.”What was once a daily hardship is now a distant memory. Clean water has not just quenched thirst in this community—it has transformed lives.Learn more:Read more aboutWorld Water Day and IFRC’s approach toWater, Sanitation and HygieneRead more about theProgrammatic Partnership.Read more IFRC World Water Day 2025 stories:World Water Day 2025: Angola Red Cross and IFRC bring safe, treated water and hygiene messages to communities hard hit by choleraWorld Water Day: After the quake, Red Cross brings life-changing water to Vanuatu’s hidden communitiesWorld Water Day 2025: From glaciers to the kitchen sink, a story of water and resilience from two mountain villages in Tajikistan

Red Education

RED Education is a global initiative that brings together the IFRC network’s efforts to support education – in formal and non-formal spaces – for children and young people before, during and after disasters or crises.  

International Youth Day: Kenyan school kids sing, act and dance in vibrant epidemic preparedness competition

“People of Tharaka, listen, we tell you!”“Diseases have no boundaries. They can infect anyone!”“They can infect teachers, pupils, farmers and the entire community!”“We need to be aware of diseases like COVID-19! Cholera! Measles! Kalazaar! And how we can prevent them!”These are some of the lyrics chanted loudly and proudly by children from Maragwa primary school in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya as they competed in theChanuka Challenge last month. They reflect the passion and knowledge of kids determined to keep their communities safe from infectious diseases.What was the Chanuka Challenge all about?Chanuka is a Swahili word which roughly translates as ‘be smart!’ Organized by the Kenya Red Cross, the challenge ran throughout July across four different counties in Kenya. 61 primary and secondary schools participated, whose pupils sang, acted, danced and performed skits to raise awareness about different diseases and win prizes.More than 800 school children took part in the challenge – teaming up to present everything from poems about polio to role plays about rabies – which were judged on creativity, confidence, working together, and accuracy of their health information.As well as the main prize for top school performance, individual prizes were also up for grabs in the form of health quizzes and interactive games.By turning complex health topics into accessible and engaging performances, pupils practised how to effectively communicate about disease signs and symptoms, as well as prevention and control measures, to their peers and wider community—as well as developing valuable skills in public speaking, creative expression and teamwork.School Health Clubs supporting healthier communitiesThe pupils who took part in the Chanuka Challenge are all members of School Health Clubs set up by the Kenya Red Cross as part of theCommunity Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness Programme (CP3) funded by USAID.The clubs help primary and secondary school pupils learn how to protect themselves from various disease threats, stay healthy, and spread their knowledge to their fellow pupils, families, and wider communities.They usually meet on a weekly basis, covering topics such as proper handwashing, the importance of human and animal vaccination, and how to recognize signs of different diseases.Why involve school children in preparing for epidemics and pandemics?“It is important to learn about health because it helps us to prevent diseases against our bodies and also to prevent diseases against the communities,” explains Ann Gakii, pupil and secretary of the Rwatha School Health Club in Tharaka Nithi.Brimming with passion, energy, and a desire to support their families and communities, school pupils like Ann can play a really valuable role in preparing for and preventing disease outbreaks.“When given the right knowledge, encouragement and support, school pupils can be powerful agents of change within their communities. We’ve seen health club members take their new knowledge to their communities and support them to adopt healthier behaviours that are keeping them safe from disease threats,”explains Naomi Ngaruiya,CP3 Programme Coordinator with Kenya Red Cross.“We’re delighted to support so many children across Kenya through School Health Clubs and it was a complete joy to see their enthusiasm and creativity throughout the Chanuka Challenge. We hope to run an even bigger and better version of the event in future!”--The activities featured in this article are part of the multi-country Community Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness Programme (CP3). Funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), CP3 supports communities, Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and other partners to prepare for, prevent, detect and respond to disease threats.If you enjoyed this story and would like to learn more, sign up to the IFRC’s Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness Newsletteror visit theKenya Red Cross website.

Uganda: School Health Club helps students and communities stay safe from diseases

“The School Health Club has taught us how to look after our health. I also bring the knowledge I learn from the club to my home, and my parents take those messages to the wider community.”These are the words of Kikanshemeza, a pupil at Mwisi Primary school in south-west Uganda and proud member of her School Health Club.Set up by the Uganda Red Cross, the School Health Club helps primary and secondary school pupils understand how to protect themselves from various disease threats, stay healthy, and share their newfound knowledge with their fellow pupils, families, and wider communities.It’s one of the many different activities under the Community Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness Programme (CP3) – a multi-country programme run by the IFRC and seven Red Cross National Societies to help communities, first responders, and other partners prepare for, detect, prevent, and respond to health risks.Since joining her School Health Club, Kikanshemeza has built a tippy tap—a simple, low-cost handwashing facility that can help reduce up to 50% of avoidable infections—in her home, supported her family to use it regularly and properly, and shared life-saving information about different diseases.“She told us not to eat the meat of animals that have died and to make sure they are buried properly, and also that bats are a potential cause of Ebola and monkeys can transmit it too,” explains Kikanshemeza’s mother, Annet.Knowledge is powerKikanshemeza is one of 30 School Health Club members at Mwisi Primary school. The club meets up once a week in special sessions led by Akampurira, a facilitator from the Uganda Red Cross, who teaches them all about different diseases—including how to recognize signs and symptoms, which people might be most at risk, and actions the students can take to stop diseases from spreading.Club members are then responsible for maintaining school handwashing facilities, making sure all students follow proper hygiene practices, and sharing what they’ve learned with their follow students—often through large, theatrical performances in the school hall.Students act out informative and lively scenes: everything from a patient seeking help from a doctor after noticing signs of malaria, to a person being bitten by a dog in the street and rushing to get vaccinated.Tackling serious health issues in this more fun and light-hearted way helps break down complex topics, keeps fellow students engaged, and helps them retain the knowledge in case they need it in future.Why involve school children in epidemic preparedness?The IFRC and our member National Societies have long focused on helping people prepare for, respond to, and recover from epidemics.We know from experience that effective epidemic preparedness must involve communities themselves, first responders, and partners from across all parts of society – such as schools.“School health clubs have been a game changer in health risk communication, as engaged learners have been excellent peer educators in school, and also change agents at the household level,” explains Henry Musembi, CP3 Programme Delegate for Uganda and Kenya.“The clubs are a great platform for training the next generation of epidemic emergency responders and champions in target communities,” he adds.Seeing positive changeKushaba, another School Health Club member whose brother had previously suffered from malaria, says he’s learned a lot from the club and has noticed positive change in his community:“We learned how we can control malaria by slashing compounds, draining all stagnant water to destroy habitat for mosquitoes, and how you can use a treated mosquito net.”“Before the introduction of the School Health Club, we didn’t have tippy taps, we didn’t know how to use toilets, even how we can clean our school. Pupils, they were suffering from diseases like malaria, cholera, but now because of the School Health Club, they are fine,” he adds.--The School Health Club in Mwisi is one of several set up in Uganda and other countries through the Community Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness Programme (CP3).Funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the programme runs in seven countries and supports communities, Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and other partners to prevent, detect and respond to disease threats.If you enjoyed this story and would like to learn more:Visit our Epidemic and pandemic preparedness webpageSign up to the IFRC’s epidemic and pandemic preparedness newsletter

IFRC report: Goals for poverty reduction, decent work and closing inequality gap, stalled by COVID-19 in Latin America and the Caribbean

Panama City, May 20, 2022 - The devastating socioeconomic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have stalled some of the key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Latin America and the Caribbean. It is unlikely that the region will end poverty, ensure gender equality, promote decent and equitable work, and reduce inequality within and between countries by the target date of 2030. This is one of the main findings of "Readjusting the path towards equity," a recent study by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The report confirms that COVID-19 increased unemployment, reduced the income of the poorest families, forced more than one million children to leave school, reduced labour protection and worsened inequality and gender violence. Head of IFRC's Disaster, Climate and Crisis unit in the Americas, Roger Alonso, said: "This study helps us understand the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the most vulnerable people’s income, access to food and well-being. The findings underline the fact that a full social and economic recovery will take years. To avoid irreversible levels of vulnerability, it is crucial to implement an inclusive and fair recovery, which also anticipates the effects of the current food and fuel price increases resulting from the conflict in Ukraine." According to the report, the loss of income of the poorest populations increased food insecurity resulting in 60 million people suffering from hunger in the first year of the pandemic. That same year, 23 million women were pushed into poverty and since then, cases of domestic and sexual violence and human trafficking have increased. In addition, 10% of jobs in the region were lost during the pandemic, and 30% of these have not yet been recovered. Meanwhile, 51% of the migrant population surveyed by IFRC said they lost their jobs and 53% of those who kept them, saw their income reduced or were not paid. This IFRC analysis is based on literature review, interviews with experts and representatives of international organizations, as well as 1,825 surveys conducted in Argentina, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama and Venezuela. Co-author of the report and IFRC Livelihoods Recovery Officer in the Americas, Daniela Funez, said: ''Listening to the communities we serve is a priority for the Red Cross network. That's what allows us to know their needs in depth and, in this case, the data they provided us confirms the projections made by international agencies about the effects of COVID-19 on the SDGs'." To address the socioeconomic impacts of the pandemic, the IFRC suggests prioritizing attention to the most vulnerable groups, incorporating a gender approach in humanitarian action and contributing to reducing the effects of climate change. It also calls for increased investment in vaccination, protection and livelihood protection, a key issue to close the 60% funding gap needed to continue responding to the medium and long-term effects of COVID-19. For more information: In Bogota:David Quijano +57 310 5592559,[email protected] In Panama:Susana Arroyo Barrantes,[email protected]

Uniting through the power of football

Sport is a really powerful way of addressing youth isolation and exclusion and preventing violence. The IFRC has teamed up with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy of Qatar 2022 – Generation Amazing on a unique and innovative project that unites young people through one of the most popular sports worldwide: football.

Drowning just below the surface: New IFRC research reveals magnitude of socioeconomic impacts of COVID-19 pandemic

Geneva, 22 November 2021 – Women, people in urban areas and those on the move have been disproportionately and uniquely affected by the devastating socioeconomic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. These are some of the findings of new research published today by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The COVID-19 pandemic has had major economic impacts on every nation in the world. The IFRC’s new research also shows the extent of the pandemic’s secondary consequences on communities and individuals. This crisis has caused: increased unemployment and poverty; increased food insecurity; a higher vulnerability to violence; and a loss of education and reduced opportunities for children. It has also exacerbated mental health issues. Francesco Rocca, President of the IFRC, said: “Our research shows what we have long suspected and feared, namely that the destructive secondary impacts of this pandemic have damaged the fabric of our society and will be felt for years, if not decades, to come. People who were already vulnerable, due to conflict, climate-change, and poverty, have been pushed further towards the edge. And many people who were previously able to cope have become vulnerable, needing humanitarian support for the first time in their lives.” The new research provides a global overview, with a special focus on ten countries: Afghanistan, Colombia, El Salvador, Iraq, Kenya, Lebanon, Philippines, Spain, South Africa and Turkey. Overall, women had more significant impacts on their income, were at greater risk of COVID-19 due to caregiving roles, more exposed to sexual and gender-based violence and experienced mental health impacts to a greater degree than men. In urban areas, poverty rates grew, in some cases at a faster pace than in rural areas. People on the move were more likely to lose jobs or have their hours cut during the pandemic and have been widely neglected by formal protection and safeguarding measures. Furthermore, a lack of preparedness made it harder for countries to build a comprehensive response to what has simultaneously become a public health emergency, global economic shock, and political and social crisis. “As frontline community responders, National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies around the globe have been able to bridge the gaps in this response. They have a deep knowledge of the inequalities that exist and of how they are perpetuated and are therefore among the best placed to help people to recover from the harms to their livelihoods, health and education. But to continue to do so they will need significant additional support: both financial and political,” Rocca continues. The report also reveals that the world is on course for a wildly unequal recovery, depending on the efficacy and equity of vaccination programmes. “We have consistently warned that the inequitable distribution of vaccines will not only allow for high levels of transmission to continue, but that this inequity will also hinder, prolong, or exacerbate the impacts of this pandemic. While we continue to allow profits to trump humanity and richer countries continue to monopolize doses, we will never be able to say that this pandemic is over. “The world must open its eyes, take heed of what is happening around them and shift from words to action. If not, we face the risk that the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic will be just as uneven and unjust as the impacts of the pandemic itself,” Rocca concludes. Click here to download and read the report (available in English, Arabic, French and Spanish). For more information and to arrange interviews: In London: Teresa Goncalves, co-author of the report and IFRC COVID-19 Communications Coordinator, +44 (0) 7891 857 056, [email protected] Watch this short video about the report:

Youth as Agents of Behavioural Change

Youth as Agents of Behavioural Change (YABC) is the IFRC’s long-standing programmethat helps people around the world promote a culture of non-violence and peace in their communities.

Inclusion, protection and engagement

At the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), we believe that diversity is a fact, inclusion is an act. Through all of our work, we aim to protect and promote a positive change for humanity, based on our humanitarian values and Fundamental Principles.

Education

Education is a fundamental human right and an essential public service. The IFRC and our National Societies worldwide work to ensure that all people have safe and equitable access to quality, inclusive education.

Urgent action needed to protect children against climate related disasters in Africa

Nairobi/Geneva, 5 July 2021 - The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Africa Region is calling on its partners to do more to protect children amid increasing vulnerabilities due to climate-related disasters. This call comes ahead of the upcoming Africa Dialogue/Anticipatory Action event. MohammedMukhier, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ (IFRC) Regional Director for Africa said: “As drought and food insecurity take hold, we see again that Africa is one of the most vulnerable regions to the effects of climate change and its related disasters. IFRC is deeply concerned about the disproportionate level of protection risks against children across Africa posed by climate related disasters. Anticipating need and taking effective action is essential.” IFRC is calling on all humanitarian actors to do a better job at preventing children from increased violence, abuse and exploitation. IFRC’s study, “We Need To Do Better” shows that climate related disasters puts pressure on protective systems, leaving families in desperate situations, and reducing children’s chances of shaping their own futures. Mukhier added: “Climate change related extreme weather and rising temperatures have increased the frequency of droughts and floods in Africa and around the world, leading to knock-on effects such as economic hardship, child labour, severe malnutrition, lack of access to clean water and WASH facilities, child marriage and lower school attendance. The consequences of these are felt today and will continue to undermine children’s protection for years to come. We need to invest more in preventative action including anticipatory action with a specific lens on child protection.” Presently, the menace of floods, COVID-19, conflict, and locusts in parts of the African region, linked to the warming climate, is a key example of the risks. Yet, this may worsen in the coming months, especially between June and August 2021, with the exacerbation of food insecurity. Furthermore, climate related displacement is a significant concern. Rapid and slow onset environmental degradation diminishes living conditions, forcing families to leave their homes and often separate from their children. Many children are also forced to reside in unsafe refugee and IDP camps in countries across the continent where they are at risk of trafficking, recruitment into armed groups and sexual violence. Climate related disasters in the region also threaten children’s access to school including through forcing schools to close, intensifying dropouts, families having to choose between school and livelihoods, and making transport and access to school hard for the poorest. This is already happening in Eastern and Southern Africa, where around 28 per cent of the children are unable to attend school. The lowest attendance rates are observed in the Horn, where climate related disasters are particularly prevalent. School attendance is vital for children because—apart from education—learning institutions provide an environment that protects children from abuse, violence and exploitation. Children’s mental health is also affected by the short and long-term impacts of repeated disasters. Instability and separation from family can exacerbate the stress and trauma of the experience. Psycho-social support is crucial for the emotional wellbeing, mental health and development of children. Girls are at particular risk in climate related disasters as they experience unequal access to school, resources and decision-making, particularly in areas facing severe poverty. During and after climate related disasters, girls are more vulnerable to sexual abuse, exploitation, and trafficking. Child marriage, for example, may be used as a coping mechanism by families who experience economic hardship induced by environmental disasters. Girls who are married are at risk of physical and sexual abuse, poor nutrition, and increased chance of maternal neonatal death. Mukhier called for a more proactive approach: “Local humanitarian actors need to take urgent, coordinated, and preventative actions to better protect children from the dire consequences of climate related disasters in the Africa region. We need to better anticipate protection needs and take practical actions. Children have not contributed to the climate crisis and yet they carry its heaviest burdens today and for the decades to come. We need to do better to ensure we work with children as partners and prioritize their protection and education.” The IFRC urges humanitarian actors to: (1) recognize the impact of climate change related disasters on children; (2) invest in child protection and education systems, including localized coordination mechanisms; (3) include children, both boys and girls, in climate disaster related decision-making processes and the development of local solutions; and (4) prioritize anticipatory action to protect children from the impacts of climate disasters.

PRCS introduces children with disabilities and their families to distance learning

Randa El Ozeir: Undeterred by the interruption of physical communication due to COVID-19, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) has continued to support and help children with disabilities and those with special needs by using productive communication tools delivered by 60 teams responsible for distance learning and rehabilitation. Suheir Badarneh, the director of rehabilitation in the PRCS, explained that “due to the sudden closing down, this initiative didn’t require a special digital platform. We resorted to groups on WhatsApp, Messenger, and Facebook to exchange the information. We had to call some families on mobile phones and landing lines when they didn’t have neither internet connection nor smart devices.” Up to now, 686 children with special needs have benefited from the program that consists of special activities prepared by 187 volunteers, who have instructed the parents to implement them at home and send their feedback to the specialists and the rehabilitation workers. According to Badarneh, the activities aim to develop the children’ capabilities, relying on four main channels: a) equipping families with lessons and learning activities to be completed at home; b) providing through guidance and mental support a safe space for the children and their parents to express and release their feelings, fears, and inner thoughts; c) understanding the needs of the children and their parents and meet them as much as possible; d) and raising the awareness on virus prevention through health pamphlets created by the PRCS or other organizations.” So far, 10 PRCS Branches have participated in the program, which was geographically spread to Ariha, Anabta, Al-Khalil, Tarqumiyha, Toubas, Nablus, Bani Nai’m, Ramallah, Khan Younis, and Rafah. The PRCS has contacted 1048 families and supplied them with cognitive and kinetic activities along with instructions for self-care to train the children after the shut-down of schools and rehabilitation centres and the pending of face-to-face education. Badarneh said, “we were able to increase the number of beneficiaries to reach 70% of all targeted children. The positive involvement and the responsiveness of parents and children with the program team were crucial to the success of the initiative. At the beginning it wasn’t easy to convince the parents to commit to distance learning, as it was a new concept for them, and many believed it to be ineffective.” Given the novelty of the experience, the PRCS kept the door open for comments and suggestions from parents who wanted to improve the performance and the delivery methods of information to their children, including the deaf. The PRCS Branches created between 18 and 847 specific activities to be sent every day depending on the participation ratio and the nature of each Branch’s centre. Badarneh said, “we promoted social interaction among family members and the contribution to house chores, as well as developing language and communication capability in children, focusing on behaviour modification and boosting their fine and gross motor skills. We also completed the kindergarten program based on speech training, concept recognition, reading and writing, and sign language learning.” Asmahan Assfour, the coordinator of the sign language unit at the PRCS, said that a sign language translation has been provided to several female students to finish their digital marketing training online. And a group of female deaf students put their experience to test by producing 57 animated videos to spread awareness about COVID-19.” “This project requires an equipped team of volunteers and specialists to guide the families of children with disabilities and visit them as part of an awareness program,” suggested Sirine Abou Samaha, a psychologist with the PRCS, who also raised the alarm that, “people with special needs are one of the most marginalized and stigmatized groups in the world, even under normal circumstances. If the government and the relevant institutions didn’t act quickly to contain them in their response to the spread of COVID-19, they would be exposed to the infection risk and death. They are less immune to facing the virus, and this affects their families’ mental health and is reflected in chronic anxiety that can develop into depression. Abou Samaha warned that the psychological conditions of these children can become detrimental after being severed from their safe space in learning and rehabilitation centres. There they can socially interact and enjoy extracurricular activities, which channel their energy in the right direction, giving them a sense of self and the right to play, learn, and live like any other child. Abou Samaha suggested to coordinate health check-up campaigns for these children and encourage as many of their families as possible to be in the digital world. Om Karim, a mother of two children who attend the PRCS’ Total Communication School for teaching the deaf, welcomed the program. “The teacher, Najah Zahran, sends videos showing the letters’ and sounds’ phonetics, their signs, and their pictures to use when I teach my children. It has been a fruitful experience in many aspects for me and for my son. We have been able to fill our free time at home with learning. I, myself, even gained new skills.” There is value in looking at this distance learning program during COVID-19 and beyond. “We are weighing with the IT unit the options to best develop this technology, so we can keep working with the children with disabilities during COVID-19 or any similar situations,” concluded Badarneh. But the hard-financial position of the families remains the major obstacle to meet the necessary requirements and ensure an effective communication and participation of both children and their families.

COVID-19: IFRC, UNICEF and WHO issue guidance to protect children and support safe school operations

GENEVA/NEW YORK, 10 March 2020 – The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) today issued new guidance to help protect children and schools from transmission of the COVID-19 virus. The guidance provides critical considerations and practical checklists to keep schools safe. It also advises national and local authorities on how to adapt and implement emergency plans for educational facilities. In the event of school closures, the guidance includes recommendations to mitigate against the possible negative impacts on children’s learning and wellbeing. This means having solid plans in place to ensure the continuity of learning, including remote learning options such as online education strategies and radio broadcasts of academic content, and access to essential services for all children. These plans should also include necessary steps for the eventual safe reopening of schools. Where schools remain open, and to make sure that children and their families remain protected and informed, the guidance calls for: Providing children with information about how to protect themselves; Promoting best handwashing and hygiene practices and providing hygiene supplies; Cleaning and disinfecting school buildings, especially water and sanitation facilities; and Increasing airflow and ventilation. The guidance, while specific to countries that have already confirmed the transmission of COVID-19, is still relevant in all other contexts. Education can encourage students to become advocates for disease prevention and control at home, in school, and in their community by talking to others about how to prevent the spread of viruses. Maintaining safe school operations or reopening schools after a closure, requires many considerations, but if done well, can promote public health. For example, safe school guidelines implemented in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone during the outbreak of Ebola virus disease from 2014 to 2016 helped prevent school-based transmissions of the virus. UNICEF is urging schools – whether open or helping students through remote learning – to provide students with holistic support. Schools should provide children with vital information on handwashing and other measures to protect themselves and their families; facilitate mental health support; and help to prevent stigma and discrimination by encouraging students to be kind to each other and avoid stereotypes when talking about the virus. The new guidance also offers helpful tips and checklists for parents and caregivers, as well as children and students themselves. These actions include: Monitoring children’s health and keeping them home from school if they are ill; Encouraging children to ask questions and express their concerns; and Coughing or sneezing into a tissue or your elbow and avoid touching your face, eyes, mouth and nose.

In pictures: Preventing the spread of anthrax among Maasai communities in Kenya

Kenya Red Cross has been ramping up to help communities stay protected against an anthrax outbreak that has long been spreading among pastoralist communities in Kenya.Because of the stigma and lack of reporting at community level, most cases go undetected, putting many more at risk.But this is beginning to change. For the first time ever, more cases are being brought forward to authorities and responded to, through Kenya Red Cross' work to build community-based surveillance. In addition, more than 24,600 targeted vaccinations of livestock have taken place to protect against anthrax due to these reports.Why are anthrax cases found in Maasai communities?For the Maasai people in Kenya, cows are an intrinsic part of their culture and daily life. Cattle are not simply an income source, but a way of life - they are a symbol of wealth, pride and prosperity. However, this close connection with livestock can also put them at risk of zoonotic diseases, particularly anthrax which has been a recurrent outbreak in Kenya for decades.Cultural practices among the communities often expose them to the diseases, such as cutting open an animal who has died of a disease to locally diagnose the cause of the animal's death. Occasionally if the diagnosis by the community does not seemingly look bad, they end up eating the carcass, which puts them at risk."One health": Our collective responseKenya Red Cross, with the support of IFRC and USAID, has been ramping up epidemic and pandemic preparedness to strengthen communities' resilience - including the Maasai - during and after the epidemics.Focusing in Bomet, Narok, Tharaka-Nithi and West Pokot, Kenya Red Cross is working with governments (Ministry of Health and Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries), communities, schools, volunteers, local responders and humanitarian partners to collectively prepare for and respond to epidemics.Because more cases have been reported, it has also meant a stronger collective response from communities, volunteers, health professionals and veterinarians. Instead ofthe Maasai and other pastoralist communities eating animals that have been infected by anthrax, they are now calling authorities and disposing of carcasses properly. They are also ensuring their animals are properly vaccinated. Communities are taking up better hygiene practices, including washing hands and properly cooking meatbefore consumption.Empowering students in Maasai communities to end anthraxNaisanta Loso, 13, is a student in Nkoilale Primary School in Narok County, Kenya and a member of a school health club, supported by the Red Cross. This club empowers students to become “champions” in preventing, detecting and responding to disease outbreaks.At the end of 2019 alone, anthrax killed two people in her community, countless livestock and caused many others to get sick. 26 cases of anthrax have been brought forward and rapidly responded to thanks to students like Naisanta who helped their community dispose of anthrax-infected cows before people could get sick.According to Naisanta Loso, when cattle die, the Maasai herders open the dead carcass and traditionally diagnose the cause of the animal’s death. In the process, the community becomes contaminated with the disease.Peter Korir, Naisanta's teacher, helped Naisanta report a case in her community. Together with Naisanta, a veterinary officer was called and the cow was buried. As a key player in community health education, Peter is instrumental in designing and providing community and epidemic and pandemic preparedness through a health club at the school.Changing cultural behaviour can get challenging, however, with interactive learning, teachers can make their learning fun, engaging and attractive. During the health club session, Peter passes key messages about the infectious disease through an interactive storytelling approach. The students learn through traditional songs, poems and skits.“I encourage my students to report any case of anthrax.Prompt reporting of suspected cases may potentially reduce the contaminated of the affected community," explains Peter.It is during these interactive sessions that Naisanta has learned more about anthrax and how to prevent it. She has transferred this knowledge on to her family and community members:My community value cows. It was not easy to convince the community to dispose of a dead cow suspected to have died of anthrax. Today, my community ensures cows suspected to have died of anthrax are buried to prevent further infections.The activities featured in this article are part of the multi-country Community Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness Programme (CP3). Funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), CP3 supports communities, Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and other partners to prepare for, prevent, detect and respond to disease threats. If you enjoyed this story and would like to learn more, sign up to the IFRC’s Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness Newsletter.    Written by: Martha Awino, Kenya Red CrossEdited by: Corrie Butler

Red Cross Red Crescent Academy established in China

The International Academy of the Red Cross and Red Crescent was established in Suzhou on 31 August 2019, co-founded by the Red Cross Society of China and Soochow University. Francesco Rocca, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Dr CHEN Zhu, President of the Red Cross Society of China, Vice-President of the IFRC and guests from the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Finance, the National Health Commission, the Ministry of Emergency Management, the International Development Cooperation Agency and other relevant ministries and commissions, leaders of Jiangsu Province and Suzhou City, Leaders of Soochow University and the Red Cross Society of China, the executive leadership team and people from all walks of life attended the inauguration ceremony. Chen delivered a keynote speech entitled "Building and sharing humane education to deliver wisdom and strength.” He pointed out that the establishment of the academy was a major event in the history of the Red Cross, not only for the Red Cross Society of China. The establishment of the academy would bring new impetus into the Red Cross and a platform, wisdom and solutions for the development of global humanitarian undertakings. “We have witnessed the establishment of the International Academy of the Red Cross and Red Crescent, which is an invitation to the world to jointly build a community and create a better future for humanity,” Chen said. “We hope that all the people who care about the cause of human progress will join hands with us to embark on this great journey.” Francesco Rocca also delivered a speech at the inauguration ceremony applauding the academy’s establishment and accepting an invitation from the Red Cross Society of China to be the honorary president of the academy. He said the academy would contribute to meeting current and increasingly complex humanitarian demands and was a contribution of the Red Cross Society of China to the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. He said the academy would become a training center for professional humanitarian workers, a research center for humanitarian theory and an international platform for humanitarian communication and cooperation. There had been no comprehensive Red Cross Red Crescent university or academy) anywhere in the world before, and the establishment of the International Academy of the Red Cross and Red Crescent fills this gap. After years of demonstration and preparation, the Red Cross Society of China, Soochow University, and the Chinese Red Cross Foundation officially signed a cooperative start-up agreement in Beijing on 30 June 2019. The agreement involves setting up six research centres, including the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement research center, an International Humanitarian Law centre, the Belt and Road international exchange and cooperation centre, Nightingale nursing centre, humanitarian resource mobilization and values dissemination centre, and an emergency management and disaster preparedness centre to develop and design different types of humanitarian education training and teaching courses, conduct short-term training, medium-term training and advanced training courses, and recruit master's and doctoral students in related fields.

British Red Cross encourages language learning with refugee teachers

By Mark Richard South, IFRC Getting people talking, that’s the aim of a new partnership which has seen the British Red Cross team-up with a refugee-led language learning start-up. As part of the AVAIL project, the British Red Cross is working together with Chatterboxto connect language learners with teachers coming from refugee backgrounds. Through the Chatterbox platform, language learners can pick from more than ten languages – including Arabic, Persian, French, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese - to learn and practice online with trained native speakers. “Too often the skills of people who are refugees go unrecognised and unused when they arrive in a safe country,” explained Fiona Harvey from the British Red Cross. “Working with Chatterbox we are recognising people’s skills, helping show that the talents refugees arrive with are an opportunity we can all benefit from, and also strengthening connections between refugees and people in their new communities.” As well as tapping into existing skills and providing a flexible option for employment – often a challenge for refugees arriving in the UK – Chatterbox also provides an opportunity for refugees and language learners to interact and know more about each other, and each other’s cultures, in a natural environment. The project is also helping key workers – such as police officers and health workers - to learn languages commonly spoken by refugees. Supporting the development of these language skills not only benefits the learners in their day jobs, but also makes services more accessible to refugees more widely, and enhances the value of refugee languages in the workplace - further contributing to overall integration and understanding. “Getting people communicating, understanding and empathising with each other is a key part of integration,” added Harvey. “Whether it’s online or in person, simply chatting together really can make a world of difference.”