Youth Station (EJ)
Youth Leadership for Resilient Communities
Since 2011, Youth Station (EJ) has been a space where Tsotsil children, adolescents, and youth develop their potential and transform their communities. This institutional program of Proyecto Difa fosters youth leadership, strengthens social cohesion, and builds intergenerational connections, all with deep respect for cultural identities and local needs.
What We Do
At EJ, we work to:
- Develop community leaders who promote collective well-being.
- Create youth participation spaces for managing free time, popular education, and self-management.
- Strengthen capacities in areas like mental health, gender equity, economy, arts, environment, and technology.
Our Model
Each municipal center in regions like Aldama, Chenalhó, Mitontic, and Santiago el Pinar has a Youth Committee (EJ), formed by young leaders managing public spaces such as community centers. These committees operate autonomously and receive ongoing training and support to develop impactful projects in their communities.
How We Work
We use a methodology based on:
- Popular Education: Learning by doing, moving from action to reflection and change.
- Playful and Experiential Techniques: Designed to foster empathy and cohesion.
- Cultural Connection: Promoting ties to local traditions and knowledge.