Created in 2016, CCIF Cyprus supports education and research for social inclusion of all citizens, including youth with fewer opportunities, disabilities and immigrants. Our purpose is to provide an enabling space to people from inauspicious environments and equip them with necessary digital skills to access today’s labour market, while increasing their chances at an equal treatment. At CCIF Cyprus, we try to fuel the dialogue between local communities to address the different fears many have, as we deem it a necessary step to build an inclusive and peaceful society. We have made it our goal to help communities understand that despite the difference in the manifested speech one might hold, the underlying values and feelings are not only equally valid, but also very often the same, in an attempt to connect groups with – and help them relate to – each other.
We are heavily involved in the integration process of immigrants in Pafos, offering them several times a week Greek, English, computer literacy classes, as well as drama classes and sport, so that they can develop their skills and capacity of expression. CCIF Cyprus helped immigrants and refugees learn languages to be better positioned not only to find work, but also to better communicate with their Cypriot counterparts for which sometimes different or foreign can seem rather threatening.
I am a Sustainable Development Practitioner with a diverse expanse of interests and subsequent expertise, which are founded on a keen understanding and appreciation for the significance attributed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
I am Maria Yesayan from Armenia. I am currently working in UNICEF Armenia and have experience with local youth-centered and developmental NGOs in Armenia, as well as international organizations, such as World Vision International and National Geographic. I have Bachelor's with Honor in Governance and study abroad certification in the field of Political Sciences from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. I have participated in various national and international projects covering diverse topics from diversity and inclusion to piece and security issues.
With a unique background that combines data analysis with a human-centered approach, I bring a multifaceted skill set to international development. My early work in ABA-focused projects for children with autism and Down syndrome taught me the power of evidence-based decisions to create tailored, impactful change. This experience, along with a deep passion for digitalization and knowledge-sharing, shapes my approach to development. Today, as a Chief Specialist at the Centre for Excellence within Solidarity Fund PL, I support projects in Eastern Neighbourhood countries in project management and monitoring, evaluation, and learning, aiming to fostering resilient, inclusive growth through data-driven insights, digital tools, and collaborative solutions.
My name is Lucie Boutrois, and I am a French and European citizen, who has been working over 8 years in the field of development and cooperation.
While pursuing my Master's degree in Sustainable Development Economics at "Paris 1- Sorbonne University", I cultivated a strong interest in the resilience of civil (CSO) society, local solidarity, and the empowerment of youth. This passion led me to undertake a junior fellowship program in center for khmer studies in Cambodia, and later to work for the research & development institute in Senegal.
Currently, I have been working as Program manager for the « NGO Village Pilote » that protects children in danger in West Africa and advocates international solidarity in France. My daily commitment extends to other local CSO that I support in strengthening their technical and financial capacities.
I am driven by the desire to make a positive impact on the world of tomorrow, creating connections and solidarity bonds within our European societies and across other continents, particularly with West Africa.
