BEIRUT: An online video on the Nawaya Networks recently launched social networking site introduces new users to Karen, a 16-year-old who dreams of becoming a hip hop dancer, but doesnt know where to take classes.
In her minute-long video introduction she expresses her resolve to keep practicing at home, with the help of online tutorials, until she can find professional instructors.
Three years ago, I started dancing hip hop, but because I was still young I didnt know how or where to take classes, Karen says in the video, which also features clips of her breaking down some self-taught dance moves in her bed room.
I would love to have the SUPRA shoes [a style of running shoe], baggies and a hat, she added, stressing these are all important in order to move better, and also respect the hip hop culture.
The video is part of Karens Nawaya profile page, which also includes a photograph and a short introduction about the teen. These are the essential elements of the non-governmental organizations new social networking site, set to be fully functional by June 10, which seeks to connect disadvantaged youth to professional and recreational opportunities outside their immediate areas.
Taking the online route was a decision made recently by the organizers of the NGO, who looked to the Internet to increase the likelihood of both finding youth in need of their services and opportunities, and of finding the companies, institutions and mentors that can provide them.
Nawaya connects disadvantaged youth, meaning marginalized or at-risk youth, with resources to help them pursue their passions, develop certain skills and talents, said Helene Hamady, the organizations partnership coordinator.
These resources include the networks various partners and range from institutions, like universities to sports academies, businesses, and individuals. Often youth are connected to one of these resources according to their particular aptitudes.
The website enables potential mentors and sponsors to browse individual youths according to their interests, which vary from art, sports, music, photography, theatre and writing. The youths themselves include not only Lebanese, but other nationalities like Syrians, Iraqis, Palestinians and youths from various migrant communities.
Through the online network you can also discover the hidden potential of some youths. We come across a lot of talented people, and we feel that we need to share these talents with a broader audience, she said.
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Networking site seeks to connect youth to mentors