SFI in partnership with the Partnership Youth Forum, organized a central networking activity in the village of Husan, west of Bethlehem, with the wide participation of volunteers from youth groups across the West Bank. The initiative comes as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the resilience of local communities in areas threatened by settlement expansion and land confiscation.

The activity aimed to empower youth and build a collective awareness of the importance of preparedness and self-protection, enabling them to be proactive rather than reactive, and to face threats with wisdom and responsibility, for the safety and steadfastness of their communities.

The event began in the center of Husan, where Mr. Jamal Sabateen, head of the village council, welcomed the participants and emphasized the crucial role of youth in safeguarding the land and the Palestinian presence. This was followed by a presentation from the local emergency committee, highlighting the main challenges facing the village and stressing the importance of forming youth emergency committees to support local residents.

The program also included a networking field tour that started in the village and extended to the ‘Ain al-Hawiya area, which is under threat of confiscation. During the tour, participants learned about the condition of agricultural lands and water resources targeted by the occupation and settlers. The tour provided an opportunity to raise youth awareness about the importance of land and water as essential foundations of resilience and survival, while reinforcing a sense of belonging and shared responsibility to protect them.

At the conclusion of the activity, participants affirmed that such initiatives strengthen networking among youth groups, foster a spirit of collective action in facing challenges, and empower young people to play an active role in safeguarding their communities and supporting their steadfastness.