The Afghanistan and Central Asian Association is pleased to announce it has received generous funding from the Youth Music as part of its Trailblazer Fund.
The Trailblazer Fund grant will be utilised to deliver a range of activities aimed at overcoming barriers and empowering young people through music.
As a result of our extensive consultations with these communities, we will offer instrumental lessons featuring a blend of Middle Eastern and Western classical instruments. Additionally, we will establish a refugee youth orchestra, providing a unique platform for these young people to showcase their talents. Our comprehensive support will focus on skill development, confidence-building, and creating innovative pathways within music services. By addressing and overcoming the barriers they face, we aim to inspire and empower these youths to pursue their aspirations in the music industry.
Addressing Barriers
The project specifically addresses the barriers faced by young people from refugee backgrounds:
- Economic Deprivation: By providing free access to music lessons and resources, we remove financial barriers that prevent young people from participating in music education.
- Social Backgrounds: Our culturally relevant programs ensure that participants feel represented and included, addressing social and cultural barriers to engagement.
- Lack of Access: By collaborating with organisations like Afghan Youth Orchestra and Young Afghan Musicians (YAM), we provide specialised music education that might otherwise be unavailable to these young people.
Expected Outcomes
- Enhanced Skills and Confidence: Participants will gain new skills in both Middle Eastern and Western classical music, enhancing their confidence and self-
expression. - Increased Access to Music: The project will break down barriers to music access for young people from refugee backgrounds, providing them with meaningful
opportunities to engage in music education. - Stronger Community Connections: By involving the community and showcasing diverse musical traditions, the project will foster social cohesion and promote cultural understanding.
- Sustained Impact: Continuous feedback and adaptability will ensure lasting benefits for participants, contributing to their long-term development in the music industry.
The Trailblazer Fund grant will be instrumental in enabling us to deliver these activities and achieve our objectives.
