Bridges and Challenges: Social Inclusion in Cyprus
We are delighted to announce the completion of a series of five podcasts, implemented within the framework of the miHUB program, featuring the participation of representatives of local bodies, beneficiaries, as well as the staff of the Migrant Information Centers.
The initiative aims to give a voice primarily to people with a migrant background, as well as to those who work daily for the social inclusion of migrants in Cyprus, to inform the public, and to raise awareness around important social issues.
The themes of the episodes focused on key areas affecting the daily lives of migrants, such as: Housing, Access to the labor market, Education, Civic participation, social acceptance and inclusion.
Through the discussions, both the challenges faced by migrants and the good practices applied to improve living conditions and integration were highlighted.
The episodes featured:
- Irene Che, Survivor Leader | Expert Advisor and Chair, Step Up Stop Slavery Trafficking Survivors Advisory Council | Project Officer and Cultural Mediator for Synthesis Centre for Research and Education. She is actively involved in advocacy, awareness raising and education initiatives across Europe that support migrants. She leads workshops and training sessions that foster leadership, resilience, and social inclusion, particularly among migrant women and survivors of trafficking.
- Etinosa Erevbenagie-Johnbull: Co-Founder and Managing Director of Generation of Change CY Organization. Was born in Nigeria and migrated to Athens Greece at a young age. He is a Psychology graduate and is currently pursuing his master’s in educational psychology at the University of Nicosia. Etinosa’s early life experiences shaped his views and motivated him to engage in social activities focusing on human rights, justice, and solidarity. With his long experience in human rights, activism and social change, he is committed to advocating and motivating others to become active citizens and becoming the change, they wish to see in society. In June 2023, Etinosa received the “Outstanding Social Contribution Award” from the School of Humanities and Social Science of the University of Nicosia for his work at the Generation for Change CY.
- Alyas Popalzai is a communications professional, community advocate, and father of three children. His journey from Afghanistan to Cyprus as a refugee has shaped both his personal and professional path, giving him a deep understanding of resilience, hope, and the unseen struggles many people face. Through this podcast, he shares part of that journey — not only as an advocate, but also as a parent who dreams of a safer and brighter future for all children. His goal is to inspire empathy, understanding, and solidarity within our communities.
- Demetra Nikolaou: A Social Worker, graduate of the University of Nicosia, with significant experience in the field of social inclusion and support for vulnerable groups. She has provided individual and group counseling and has previously participated in the EU co-funded project miHUB – Migrant Information Centers. Since 2019, she has been engaged in programs related to the management of Reception Centers, offering social support and coordinating activities. Today, she serves as Coordinator at the “Limnes” Reception Center, where she manages daily operations, human resources processes, as well as administrative and financial tasks. She is ambitious, dedicated, and continuously seeks opportunities for growth and new knowledge.
- Nasia Fotiou: Works as a Social Advisor at the Migrant Information Center in the Famagusta district since November 2024. She is proud to contribute to strengthening and promoting the smooth integration of people with a migrant background, as social integration is a decisive factor for the harmonious coexistence of people from different social and cultural environments. At the same time, she believes that this process broadens our horizons and enhances collective well-being.
This initiative constitutes yet another meaningful step towards strengthening intercultural understanding, empowering migrants, and promoting a society that embraces and celebrates diversity. The podcasts will soon be available to the public, reinforcing our efforts for information, dialogue, and inclusion.