SAFER Project Hosts 6th Community Event on April 23, 2024

Digital Time Communications organized the 6th community event of the SAFER Project on April 23, 2024, at the Open Air Community Setup in Tarnol, Islamabad Capital Territory. The event aimed to raise awareness about the risks associated with irregular migration to Europe and to inspire young, single men aged 18 to 30 about local opportunities in skills development, job placement, and enterprise development.

Approximately 53 participants attended, despite challenging weather conditions, including thunderstorms. Mr. Zain ul Abideen, a youth counseling expert, addressed the audience, discussing the dangers of irregular migration while emphasizing opportunities available in Pakistan.

Zurehma Ayesha Rameez, a diaspora member and student in Italy, shared her experiences and the challenges faced by migrants, such as language barriers and cultural adjustments. Her insights provided a realistic perspective on the pros and cons of migrating to Europe.

The audience engaged actively, posing questions and expressing a desire to share the information with others. The event's promotion included outreach to local educational and vocational institutions, social media engagement, and personal invitations.

An entertainment segment featured humorous poetry by Mr. Anwar Masood, resonating with the local culture. After the event, participants enjoyed a variety of food options, including pizza and burgers.

Key topics covered included the risks of irregular migration, available opportunities within Pakistan, the threat of scams, and the importance of preserving cultural identity. The session concluded with a reminder of the Migration Resource Centre and ongoing awareness through social media.

Despite the weather, the event achieved its goals of educating and empowering youth, with positive feedback indicating a growing awareness of local opportunities and a shift towards exploring legal migration options. Documentation, including images, testimonials, and evaluation questionnaires, will aid in assessing the event's effectiveness and planning future initiatives.