ZapLab Opportunities for young Surinamese Maroons

This project seeks to address the multifaceted challenges faced by Maroons youth in the Marowijne and Brokopondo districts of Suriname including high numbers of out-of-school youth and limited access to technological and educational resources. Project activities include: (1) conducting youth Science Technology Engineering Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) workshops; (2) providing hands-on training for the integration of technology with traditional crafts; and (3) helping youth develop projects that combine STEAM skills with traditional crafts. This project is implemented by Stichting Villa Zapakara voor Kind & Cultuur.

The expected outcomes of this project include: (1) enhanced employability and entrepreneurial potential among youth; (2) improved knowledge about local artistic crafts and how to integrate new technology within arts and crafts; (3) increased environmental awareness among youth; (4) successful creation of products that combine modern technology with traditional crafts; and (5) empowered Maroon youths to preserve cultural heritage and contribute towards sustainable economic development.