In the realm of youth work, few experiences are as transformative as international training programs. For Helin, a dedicated youth worker from Pärnu, attending the KA1 “Prepared Not Scared” training in Benalmádena, Spain, organized by PROJUVEN, was one such important moment. She came home with a goal in mind: to share this essential knowledge with her community. She had gained new knowledge and a greater grasp of disaster preparedness.
Upon her return to Pärnu, Helin promptly organized a seminar at RNUN center. The attendees, comprising young individuals, fellow youth workers, and community leaders, awaited with earnest interest. Helin’s presentation was methodical, detailed, and underscored by the gravity of the subject matter.
She began by outlining the structure and objectives of the training in Spain, emphasizing the global relevance of understanding hazards, emergencies, and risk mitigation strategies. With the aid of visual aids and data, Helin delved deep into the Disaster Management Cycle, elucidating its integral phases from prevention to reconstruction. She also provided a comprehensive overview of the Paris Agreement, highlighting its global ratifications and the broader implications for climate change.
A significant portion of her presentation was dedicated to practical preparedness. Drawing from her hands-on experiences in Spain, Helin stressed the importance of situational awareness, especially in familiar settings like one’s residence or workplace. She recounted the activity where participants were tasked with identifying safety measures in a hotel, underscoring the broader message: disasters can strike anywhere, and preparedness begins at home.
Helin spoke with a sense of urgency, emphasizing that in the face of global challenges, being prepared is not just an individual responsibility but a collective one.
The seminar also included a segment on intercultural understanding. Drawing parallels to her experience in Spain, Helin stressed the importance of cultural sensitivity in disaster response, emphasizing that in times of crisis, understanding and respecting cultural nuances can make a significant difference.
In addition, at the end of the meeting, attendees approached her with questions, seeking guidance on implementing preparedness measures in their own spheres. Through her earnest efforts, she has not only elevated the discourse on disaster preparedness in Pärnu but has also set a benchmark for community engagement and proactive response.
