Roma Awareness Foundation
About
Founded by Victorina Luca, the Roma Awareness Foundation works to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and defend the rights of Roma communities across Europe and beyond. Honored with the Global Award 2023 for outstanding work at a global level, the foundation is driven by the belief that change begins at home—in our cities and countries—and extends to the world. With a focus on equitable access to education, social opportunities, and recognition of Roma cultural heritage, the foundation advances its mission through grassroots campaigns, public outreach, and collaboration with NGOs, policymakers, and allies, striving for a future where Roma voices are heard, valued, and respected.
Our Collaboration
The partnership between Central Asia Children and Family Services (CACFS) and the Roma Awareness Foundation (RAF) began with a shared recognition that vulnerable families across different regions often face similar barriers to opportunity. Initial conversations revealed a mutual commitment to practical solutions—programs that not only provide immediate support but also address the deeper issues of cultural misunderstanding and social exclusion.
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The collaboration launched with a joint initiative to expand access to educational resources for children in underrepresented communities. Workshops were created to equip local educators with tools to build inclusive classrooms, ensuring that every child feels supported and valued. These efforts quickly grew into a broader exchange of knowledge, with RAF sharing advocacy strategies honed through years of grassroots work and CACFS offering its expertise in family-centered programming.
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Another milestone of the partnership was the development of cultural exchange programs that highlight the resilience and traditions of marginalized groups. Storytelling projects have given families the opportunity to share their own narratives, fostering pride in heritage while challenging stereotypes that often hold communities back. This emphasis on lived experience has strengthened awareness campaigns and deepened connections between families in Central Asia and Roma communities.
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The partnership also focuses on creating sustainable systems of support. By training local leaders, establishing mentorship networks, and advocating for policy changes, CACFS and RAF are working to ensure that positive change extends beyond short-term projects. Together, the organizations are laying the groundwork for a future where inclusive education, cultural pride, and family empowerment are the norm.
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This collaboration continues to grow, guided by the belief that meaningful transformation begins with shared vision and sustained action. Each joint project strengthens the foundation for lasting impact, proving that when organizations unite across borders, they can build pathways to opportunity for children and families everywhere.
