Youth violence often goes unnoticed, yet addressing it begins with something both simple and challenging: creating space for honest conversation.
That was the driving force behind the student-led conference organised by the Municipality of Agioi Anargyroi-Kamatero in collaboration with KMOP on 25 April 2026 at the”Maria Elena Arts and Culture Centre”.
Far from a conventional school event, the conference became a vibrant platform for dialogue on gender equality and healthy relationships. Through performances that included sketches, poetry, music, and dance, students sparked meaningful conversations with mental health professionals, educators, and members of the local community. Speaking with striking honesty and emotional maturity, the adolescents brought issues of inclusion, visibility, and gender-based violence to the forefront, calling for a more open, supportive, and inclusive school culture.
During the event, Dr. Antonia Torrens, General Director of KMOP and founder of Live Without Bullying, discussed with students the often “invisible” signs of violence and the importance of early intervention. KMOP psychologist Despoina Zagka also led an interactive workshop focused on active listening and creating safe spaces for expression without fear or judgment.
Students from several local schools, alongside community groups and parents, presented creative and experiential activities, while an art exhibition on gender equality was also showcased throughout the conference.
The initiative was inspired by KMOP’s initiative “Bottom-Up Talks”, which empowers young people to prevent gender-based violence and build healthy interpersonal relationships through peer education, counselling support, and awareness-raising activities for schools, parents, and educators.
For further information about our initiatives to address violence among youth, you can contact us at [email protected].