From 17 to 20 April 2026, 24 youth workers, sport professionals, and educators from six partner countries met in Corato, Italy, for an international seminar dedicated to research methods and the organization of focus groups.

Coordinated by Beyond Borders Italy, the activity was organized within the framework of the capacity-building project “My Story – Storytelling to Combat Gender-Based Inequalities in European and MEDA Countries.”

The seminar aimed to strengthen participants’ ability to design and conduct research on gender-related issues. Particular attention was given to the preparation and facilitation of focus groups, as well as to the collection, analysis, and interpretation of qualitative and quantitative data.

From Research Methods to Practical Tools

Through interactive sessions, teamwork, and collaborative exercises, participants explored different research methodologies that will support the next phases of the MY STORY project.

Working in international and national groups, they developed practical resources adapted to the realities of their respective countries. These included survey templates, research methodology guidelines, and initial campaign strategies.

The materials and knowledge produced during the seminar will contribute directly to the development of the upcoming training module and the MY STORY Guidelines.

The activity also enabled participants to improve their understanding of gender-related challenges and examine how research can be used to create more relevant and effective awareness-raising initiatives.

Turning Knowledge into Local Action

By the end of the four-day seminar, participants had developed concrete action plans to be implemented in their local communities.

These plans are expected to support the organization of national research activities and focus groups while helping partner organizations build evidence-based campaigns addressing gender discrimination, inequality, and violence.

The seminar represented an important step in ensuring that future MY STORY activities are based on reliable research, local realities, and the direct participation of young people and community members.

It also promoted inclusive approaches in youth work and sport by providing professionals and educators with practical tools to address gender equality through non-formal education and community engagement.

An International Partnership for Gender Equality

The MY STORY project is coordinated by the Hate Fighters Network from Serbia and implemented in partnership with:

  • Beyond Borders Italy from Italy;
  • FuteBola Sport – Centro de Futebol from Portugal;
  • Association Euro-Méditerranéenne des Echanges Volontariats Evénements MAROC from Morocco;
  • Youth Development Organization from Lebanon;
  • Jovesolides Egypt from Egypt.

The project aims to promote gender equality in the participating countries and strengthen the capacities of partner organizations to combat gender-based discrimination and violence.

To achieve these objectives, MY STORY combines non-formal education, research, storytelling, capacity building, and awareness-raising activities.

Storytelling will be used as a tool for transformation and empowerment, allowing participants and communities to share experiences, challenge stereotypes, and promote alternative narratives about gender roles.

The project will also engage communities through campaigns designed to confront prejudice and inequality and amplify the voices of people who are often underrepresented or silenced, particularly young women and marginalized groups.

MY STORY is being implemented from 1 November 2025 to 31 October 2027 in Serbia, Italy, Portugal, Morocco, Lebanon, and Egypt.

The project is co-funded by the European Union.