**Finding Our Common Ground: Cultural Heritage as a Tool for Social Inclusion**
The Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation (BoCCF), in collaboration with the Cyprus Red Cross Society, has launched an innovative initiative titled "Finding Our Common Ground." This program aims to foster social inclusion and integration among individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds through the exploration of art, play, and cultural heritage.
"Finding Our Common Ground" is part of the multi-sensory program "Aisthisis," which emphasizes creative and experiential learning. The initiative consists of a series of workshops designed to promote equal participation among newcomers and vulnerable groups in cultural activities, thereby contributing to a more inclusive society.
The workshops provide a safe and welcoming environment where participants can discover the rich cultural tapestry of Cyprus while sharing aspects of their own cultural identities. The program encourages dialogue and connection, enabling participants to explore the commonalities that unite people from various countries and cultures.
Each workshop lasts 120 minutes and includes a guided interactive visit to the exhibition "Cyprus Insula – History, Memory, Reality." Participants engage in cultural exchange activities and have the opportunity to create their own unique artwork during a hands-on art workshop. The sessions are conducted in English, with translation services available to accommodate the linguistic needs of different groups.
The workshops are scheduled to take place every Monday from October 5 to November 30, 2026, from 10 AM to 12 PM at the BoCCF located at 86-90 Phaneromenis Street, Nicosia. Transportation for participants is provided by the Cyprus Red Cross Society, ensuring accessibility for all.
Eleni Petridou Bouriti, a registered art psychotherapist and visual artist, will facilitate the workshops. With qualifications in Art Psychotherapy and Fine Arts, she brings a wealth of experience to the program. Nikos Papadopoulos, a sociologist and psychosocial support officer at the Cyprus Red Cross Society, will also support the collaboration and implementation of the initiative.
"Finding Our Common Ground" aims to create opportunities for encounters and dialogue, using cultural heritage as a bridge for communication and social inclusion. The initiative highlights the belief that, despite differences, there is always common ground to be found among individuals.
The BoCCF emphasizes the importance of health and safety during events, adhering to necessary protection measures for visitors and staff. The workshops are also designed to be accessible for individuals and groups with disabilities. Additionally, photographs and videos may be taken during the events for promotional purposes, with attendees granting permission for their images to be used.
For those interested in participating in the workshops, registration can be completed by calling the Cyprus Red Cross Society at 22504407. The initiative not only seeks to enrich the cultural experiences of participants but also aims to strengthen community ties and promote mutual understanding in a diverse society.
As Cyprus continues to embrace its multicultural identity, "Finding Our Common Ground" stands as a testament to the power of cultural heritage in fostering social inclusion and building a more cohesive community.