Living Lab rhizome: shaping the future of jordan

Under the Project IDMAJ: Contributing to the Building of Peace and the Prevention of Violence in Jordan 

Funded by AECID 

Amman, Jordan – September 2023 – The transformative event “Living Lab Rhizome: Shaping the Future of Jordan” took place from September 17th to 21st, 2023, under the auspices of Project IDMAJ, funded by AECID. This dynamic five-day activity gathered a diverse group of youth, offering them a unique platform and safe space to engage in meaningful discussions and build networks around critical societal issues. 

During this intensive period, participants delved into a wide array of topics including Human Rights, hate speech, art as a human rights advocacy tool, inclusive education, youth entrepreneurship, disabilities and leadership, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, gender and feminism, and sustainable agriculture initiatives in Jordan. These sessions were expertly facilitated by leaders from Jordan’s civil society organizations (CSOs) and domain experts, who shared their life experiences and fostered a collaborative environment.   

The facilitators’ personal testimonies played a crucial role in inspiring the youth and creating synergies. The participants were exposed to diverse perspectives and practical insights, equipping them with knowledge and motivation to drive positive change in their communities.  

To enhance their understanding of innovative initiatives in Jordan, the participants engaged in field visits, including a trip to the Carob House sustainable farm in Madaba. These visits provided hands-on learning experiences and showcased successful sustainable agriculture practices. Additionally, team-building activities such as an escape room challenge and an art and emotions workshop further strengthened the bonds among the youth. 

The impact of “Living Lab Rhizome” was profound. The youth not only mirrored themselves in the leaders but also forged a robust network among themselves and with the decision-making generation. This event has laid the foundation for a future where Jordan’s youth are empowered to contribute to peacebuilding and violence prevention in their communities.