Soliya aims to address the problems outlined in the Need section by:
- Building Knowledge about Pressing Issues & Other Cultures – Soliya increases young adults’ knowledge about key international issues and other cultures and enables them to understand other perspectives on divisive subjects, thereby enhancing their ability to counter stereotypes and ignorance.
- Establishing Meaningful Relationships Across Cultural Divides – Soliya provides young adults with the unique platform through which they can meet people on the other side of this divide. It also proactively builds the connections between youth and conducts exercises that encourage them to empathize with the “other” so they can develop meaningful relationships.
- Developing Communication, Media & Critical Thinking Skills – Soliya develops young adults’ abilities to communicate effectively about sensitive, divisive issues. Considering the importance of the media in shaping perspectives on these issues, Soliya focuses on developing young adults’ media production and media literacy skills. The program pushes young adults to be self-reflective and think critically about their own viewpoints and the information they are exposed to.
Building off of the knowledge, relationships & skills they have developed, Soliya is also offering unique training, tools & opportunities to empower these young adults to effect constructive change in their communities.