HERITAGEWISE is an innovative community project aimed at nurturing and strengthening cross-generational ties by empowering individuals aged 50 and above to share their invaluable experiences, skills, stories, and cultural traditions with younger generations.
This project acknowledges the wealth of wisdom, talents, and cultural heritage that older individuals possess, and seeks to bridge the generation gap through meaningful interactions, storytelling, art and craft activities, and cultural engagement.
Project Objectives:
1. Interconnectedness through Storytelling: HERITAGEWISE aims to create a platform where older individuals can share their life stories, cultural traditions, and experiences with younger generations through storytelling sessions. These sessions will foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultural heritage, values, and history.
2. Art and Craft Workshops: The project will organize art and craft workshops that allow older individuals to share their creative skills with younger participants. Through collaborative artistic endeavours, participants will learn from each other, enhancing mutual respect and understanding.
3. Engagement with Supplementary Schools: HERITAGEWISE will encourage older individuals to actively engage with supplementary schools, participating in cultural activities that involve both parents and children. This interaction will promote cultural exchange and provide a platform for the transmission of traditions.
4. Promotion of Respectful Attitudes: By engaging with younger generations, older individuals will be able to inspire respect and appreciation for their experiences and contributions. This intergenerational exchange will lead to a more inclusive and respectful society.
5. Health and Wellbeing: The project will promote a healthy lifestyle and mental wellbeing for older participants by involving them in engaging and purposeful activities. This contributes to a sense of fulfilment and overall wellbeing.
Empowerment and Integration: HERITAGEWISE will empower individuals over 50 by providing them with opportunities to share their knowledge and skills, enhancing their sense of purpose and self-worth. Through engagement with younger generations, participants will experience increased social activity and integration, reducing feelings of isolation.
Employability Enhancement: The project will also increase employability prospects for participants through the development of digital skills and English language proficiency. These skills are valuable assets in today's job market, enabling participants to access a wider range of employment opportunities.
Enriching Family Experiences: HERITAGEWISE will also benefit families with younger children who may not have relatives in the country. The interactions with older individuals will provide a unique and enriching experience, akin to talking to a beloved grandparent. This intergenerational exchange will create a sense of familial connection and cultural continuity for families who are distanced from their home countries.
Impact and Sustainability: HERITAGEWISE aspires to create a lasting impact by fostering meaningful connections between generations, promoting cultural exchange, and improving the overall wellbeing of participants. The project envisions a society where older individuals are celebrated for their contributions and where younger generations have a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and heritage. The project's sustainability lies in its ability to empower older individuals to take on active roles as mentors and cultural ambassadors. As they pass down their stories and traditions, the project will continue to thrive, creating a positive cycle of intergenerational understanding and respect.
HERITAGEWISE stands as a unique initiative that recognises the significance of cross-generational ties and the wealth of knowledge and experiences held by individuals over 50. By fostering connections through storytelling, art, and cultural engagement, and by providing essential training, the project aims to create a more harmonious and inclusive community where generations learn from and inspire each other. This initiative not only enriches the lives of participants but also contributes to the social fabric and wellbeing of the entire community.