The importance of listening to others

After weeks of working in a project intended to portray the conditions of young people in Belarus; their political, social, economic, and cultural challenges and obstacles; but also the spaces for improvement that I could identify in the country, knew that one of the most important parts of my work was missing.

I could have written hundreds and hundred of pages supporting my findings, a detailed academic work in which, supported by references, numbers, and figures, I could recommend what is missing to fully develop the potential of young people in Belarus: and even the, fall short by a big leap.

For that reason, I wanted to conduct a focus group where young people, youth-led organizations, organizations working with youth, and the UNFPA could hear about my work in the country and challenge it. I wanted them to show me things missing in my analysis, and how I could expand and enrich my work. 

A few days ago, this focus group finally materialized in a fruitful event in which the attendees, a very diverse group of Belarusian people working for the youth, engaged with me and together we created a dynamic of dialogue and discussion that went beyond my expectations. I could hear first-hand about their interests, the challenges the face reaching out to young people, and their needs for more inclusive and creative ways of awareness about their work.

I was very pleased to hear that they agreed on many findings that I have made over my staying here, which not only validates my work, but compensate the hours I have devoted to this task. They also gave me really valuable feedback on things that I missed or needed further explanation. But most important, I was really happy when, after the event concluded, they approached me and between congratulations they told me that they really appreciated this kind of activities. That organizations such as the UNFPA are actively willing to meet, hear, and work in close cooperation with them, serves as a way of empowerment itself.

We concluded that there is still a lot of work ahead of them, that some factors such as the political environment go beyond their capacity, but they can find creative ways to work with what they already have and improve those things that can be improved. 

Finally, I want to share with you my opening words, those that I firmly believe and that never have to be taken for granted. Those that can open a space for cooperation as equals. When I started the focus group I said: Hello, My name is Erick Regalado and I want to start by saying this. I've been here for three months, and by no means are enough to fully grasp the idea of the conditions youth in Belarus (or any other place). I'm not here to tell you what to do but to hear and learn from you and your work, but I also come here with fresh eyes to present what I've found and start with you a discussion aimed to walk together towards of common goal that is the empowerment of young people.