NORKA

“Norway Kanires Ungdom (NORKA) was founded to strengthen the bond between European countries and cultures. The organisation’s purpose is to promote intercultural understanding among individuals from diverse backgrounds.”

NORKA aims to support local communities and young people by:

• finding sustainable solutions for urban and rural development
• providing access to quality educational services
• organising creative and inclusive activities
• engaging in initiatives related to human rights, social inclusion, entrepreneurship, innovation, technology, climate change, and global challenges

Through these efforts, we seek to create new opportunities for young people, prepare them for future careers, and help them become more aware of their own well-being and role in society.

We have been actively supporting many young people and students in learning about the European Union through events, courses, and workshops. At present, we have around 40 volunteers and hold two meetings each month at G-60, a cultural venue belonging to Drammen Municipality.

Recently, we have become more active by organising activities such as traditional dances, football matches with mixed cultural groups, fishing trips, and other events. With the start of our international projects in Norway, more and more people have been joining us.

Our organisation was founded by people of different nationalities who are now citizens of Norway. We are committed not only to fighting discrimination, xenophobia, and radicalisation, but also to showing how vibrant and diverse our society can be when we come together.

As Norway Kanires Ungdom, we stand for:

• active citizenship and youth participation in democratic life
• equal access to education and the labour market
• sustainable development in both cities and rural areas
• gender equality and equity
• a livable environment and climate protection
• enriched social life through culture and sports
• human rights, social inclusion, and diversity

Our target group is young people aged 13–30, especially migrants and refugees in Drammen who need support with language learning, integration, and social inclusion. We also work with local Norwegian youth to foster intercultural dialogue, tolerance, and active citizenship, while engaging vulnerable groups and minority communities through non-formal education, cultural exchange, healthy lifestyles, and environmental awareness activities.

• Young migrants, refugees, LGBTQ+ youth, and ethnic minorities facing racism or social exclusion who need support with language learning and cultural adaptation
• Second-generation migrant youth navigating between cultural identities
• Vulnerable young people facing bullying, discrimination, substance abuse, or radicalisation
• Young volunteers and students seeking intercultural experience and professional skills
• Youth interested in environmental sustainability, renewable energy, and green initiatives