From the YES Team

Issue 7 of the Ritsona Kingdom Journal marks the one-year anniversary of the magazine and arrives on this year's International Youth Day. What a year it has been - and what a summer!

As the Greek sun grew hotter and hotter, Lighthouse's Youth Engagement Space buzzed with summer activities. Ramadan brought long days of fasting and long evenings of iftar, ending in an incredible Eid celebration full of Dabke and laughter. Fervent football fans followed World Cup games religiously. Freddo espressos and orange juice replaced hot chai. 

From movie nights to professional hairstyling, from 5-star chef meals to sewing, weightlifting and meditation, the YES was full of talented youth and Resident Volunteers sharing their skills and passions. Ping-pong tournaments, French classes and concert preparation kept us busy from sweaty afternoons into calm summer evenings. The Lighthouse youth, volunteers, and staff poured our soul into keeping the YES full of life.

Special thanks to Merzad Shixe for co-editing the magazine, George Georges for his translation work, Ed Grattan for his excellent photography, and Anrike Piel for her amazing, speedy editing work.

And extra, extra special thanks to all the amazing youth who have shown us kindness, humor, patience, generosity, and wisdom. Regardless of where we all are in the world, you are in our minds and hearts.

Much love,

The YES Team