The main actions of the program were:

– A Life Skills intervention program for UFM was developed and delivered, integrating the SCT methodology with the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) model. This program consisted of 13 weekly sessions lasting 2.5 hours each, designed for UFM aged approximately 14-18. Facilitated by 2 SCT operators and a linguistic cultural mediator, the workshops combined SCT methodology with MHPSS principles to empower participants. Through active, body-based, and artistic techniques, the program helped participants strengthen and build upon their existing resources. Utilizing theatrical processes and play-based activities, the workshops focused on developing key life skills: creativity, relationship building, self-esteem, emotion management, problem-solving, communication, and creative expression. These enhanced skills have a positive impact on how individuals navigate life’s challenges. The program is designed to be adaptable and flexible to meet the specific needs of each group and context.

The final session consisted of a performance showcasing the work done, followed by a concluding celebration with the facilitators and other UFM not involved in the program. Unlike traditional SCT interventions, where experienced facilitators have greater flexibility to adapt activities based on group dynamics, this program’s specific context and focus on MHPSS principles necessitated a more structured approach. The model developed included predetermined steps and phases within each session to allow for reflection and processing of experiences, as well as evaluation and monitoring.

– Community arts initiatives, including:

• An art installation, Oltre lo specchio (Beyond the Mirror): large mirrored panels on which were printed, life-size, photos depicting the UFM engaged in an action representing their passion or their dream to be realized. Whoever looked, mirroring themselves, was projected into the imagery and could interact with it, creating a new artistic piece, the result of that encounter mediated by the artistic game. The works were photographed and published on social media, thus creating an online photo exhibition > watch the video
• Two performances, Storie Migranti – Per ogni specchio una storia (Migrant Stories – For every mirror a story): On the occasion of the World Refugee Days 2017 and 2018, theatrical interviews were conducted with UFM on the theme of their life in Italy and their experience meeting the territory. The texts and a montage of audio excerpts from the interviews became 2 street performances presented on the Crotone waterfront, which were attended by the UFM of the centers together with the citizens > watch the video
• A joint workshop with UFM and local students resulted in the production of Video Pills: short video interviews where UFM and Italian children discussed questions they had for each other > watch the videos of the questions and answers
• A music creation workshop for UFM conducted by Musicians Without Borders (Netherlands), which concluded with the recording of the song “My Life” written by the participants > watch the video

– Training for reception workers on assistance relationships, communication, and stress management

– Psychological and legal support service for UFM and operators

– Vocational training and work placement activities

The project also included a multidisciplinary team composed of: 1 psychologist, 1 legal assistant, 1 linguistic-cultural mediator, 1 educator, 1 information officer and 2 SCT operators. The team worked in synergy coordinated remotely by: a program manager, a scientific supervisor, a methodological supervisor, and a psychological supervisor.