Bethlehem – As part of the Youth Incubator Project, SFI carried out field visits for youth groups to several community-based organizations in the southern region, including ARIJ (Applied Research Institute – Jerusalem) and the Reihana Cooperative Association. The visits aimed to learn about the work of these organizations and exchange experiences and best practices in the fields of youth and community engagement.

The tour began with a visit to ARIJ, where the organization’s director, Raed Abd Rabbo, gave an overview of the institute’s establishment and its work in supporting agriculture and cooperatives in the Bethlehem and Hebron governorates. He also shared success stories that demonstrated how ARIJ has contributed to creating positive change on the ground and empowering local communities.

The second stop was at the Reihana Cooperative Association, where Shatha Al-Azza spoke about the association’s beginnings — starting from a small space and gradually expanding to build partnerships with several cooperatives. She explained that Reihana focuses on empowering women and children and supporting community-based agriculture. The association is also working on launching its own production line under the name “Reihana Cooperative” and organizes monthly cultural seminars to promote community awareness.

All youth groups participating in the project attended the visits, which aimed to strengthen networking and collaboration between local organizations while exchanging experiences and promoting youth-led and community initiatives.

This activity was implemented in partnership with the Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), as part of SFI ongoing efforts to empower youth and enhance their role in community development.