Meet our vibrant pool of members and experts at UNITED for Intercultural Action. These dedicated individuals represent our mission at various conferences, NGO meetings, and inter-governmental discussions globally. With a wealth of knowledge and experience in combating racism, discrimination, and exclusion, they are instrumental in promoting intercultural understanding and cooperation. Below, read about their expertise and the significant work they contribute towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable world.
Youssef Aroog
Field of experience: Networking, Youth Policies, Life Skills, and Human Fraternity
Mediterranean Civil Activist, King Hamad SDGs Awardee, and IIA-UNAOC/BMW Awardee, Youssef Aroog hails from the culturally rich Sinai Peninsula. As a dedicated researcher, his focus lies in the field of European youth policies and strategies. His passion for fostering positive change and development in the EuroMed region led him to establish the Mediterranean Youth Foundation… Read more »
Richard Francis Apeh
Field of experience: Anti-Racism, Youth Policy, Climate Action, International Cooperation
Richard Francis Apeh is a youth policy expert with many years of volunteering in youth sector work. He has been a strong advocate for youth rights and meaningful youth engagement in public policy development and implementation. He is a human rights educator, peacebuilding expert and an advocate of Action for climate empowerment. He has been… Read more »
Neringa Tumėnaitė
Field of experience: Youth participation, Decolonial Environmental Action, EU-Africa Cooperation
Neringa is a researcher and trainer specialising in International Cooperation and Development Justice. As a PhD candidate at SOAS University of London and formerly a Fulbright-Schuman fellow at Harvard University, she uses innovative participatory research methods. Neringa’s current research investigates how institutional funding impacts decolonial youth climate action, where she skillfully balances a transformative approach… Read more »
Julie Ward
Field of experience: Gender, Anti-racism, Refugees, Climate, SDGs, Human Rights, Education & Youth Policy, Culture as a tool for Social Change
Julie Ward spent 40 years working as a cultural activist prior to being elected to the European Parliament. She authored a report on Intercultural Dialogue for Diversity, Education and Fundamental Values, in response to the Charlie Hebdo murders. She was Vice Chair of the Culture & Education Committee, served on the Committee for Women’s Rights… Read more »
Eunice Ayen Ondo
Field of experience: Social Justice, Human Rights, and Youth Engagement
Eunice is currently working as a Communications and Advocacy Specialist at UNITED for Intercultural Action, with a strong background in international relations and transnational law. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from Eötvös Loránd University and is currently pursuing Bachelor of Laws in Comparative, European, and International Legal Studies at Università di… Read more »
Dr. Shahab Saqib
Field of experience: Discrimination, Equality, International law, Human rights, and Islamic law
Shahab Saqib’s research primarily focuses on examining the concepts of discrimination and equality within the realm of law, particularly with an emphasis on issues related to race and citizenship. In his exploration of these topics, he demonstrates a keen interest in employing critical legal methodologies and third-world approaches to international law. Shahab’s research extends to… Read more »
Dr. Manal Benani
Field of experience: Capacity building, Youth engagement, Advocacy
Dr. Manal Benani, an Algerian Medical doctor with a dual degree in diplomacy, is a leading advocate for youth engagement. As a seasoned trainer of debate and public speaking for 9 years with YMV and the Youth Advisor of the Africa Europe Foundation, Dr. Benani embodies a commitment to empowering young voices. Co-founder of Sustainable… Read more »
Atabo David
Field of experience: Youth Engagement and Brand Communications
Atabo David passionately advocates for youth-friendly policies and sustainable development between Africa and Europe. With extensive experience in youth engagement and brand marketing, he has successfully led initiatives that empower young people in education, culture, tourism, digital innovations, and social justice. He actively promotes policies and partnerships that bridge the gap between the two continents,… Read more »
