The N.I.C.O. Spaces project, created by the Trust of Programs for Early Childhood, Family, and Community Education (TRUST) and International Child Development Initiatives (ICDI) to honour the legacy of ICDI co-founder Nico van Oudenhoven, began in September 2025 and has since fostered nurturing, intergenerational learning environments across TRUST’s community centres.
Throughout the villages of Shu’fat, Beit Surik, Beit ‘Anan, Qattanna, elJeeb, and Biddu, children and grandparents came together to share stories, crafts, and traditions, reviving Palestinian heritage and strengthening community bonds. These encounters embody the spirit of N.I.C.O. Spaces: building bridges between generations, cultivating empathy and belonging, and transforming community spaces into circles of learning, warmth, and resilience.
Below are highlights from the intergenerational activities held in October and November:
Shu’fat Community Centre – “Olive Harvest with the Grandmothers”
Fifth-grade students and local grandmothers gathered at the Shu’fat Community Centre for an intergenerational encounter centred on the theme of olive harvesting, a symbol of family unity, and deep connection to the land.
Children explored traditional household tools once used in everyday life, reconnecting with the creativity that shaped Palestinian heritage. A joint art workshop followed, where students and grandmothers created expressive pieces using natural materials, including olive leaves and burlap.
The day closed with the storytelling session “The Olive Seeds,” highlighting themes of cooperation, unity, and the farmers’ enduring relationship with their land. Grandmothers also shared memories from past harvest seasons, one recalling:
“They planted, and we ate; we plant, and they shall eat.”
The atmosphere in the Centre was filled with warmth, nostalgia, and a deep sense of intergenerational connection.
Beit ‘Anan Girls School – “Between Past and Present”
At Beit ‘Anan Girls School, elderly women from the village were invited for a community gathering under the title “Between Past and Present.” They shared stories about traditional customs, wedding celebrations, and core community values such as cooperation and compassion.
One grandmother demonstrated traditional drumming and performed folk wedding songs once sung during village ceremonies, offering young girls a vibrant connection to Palestinian oral heritage.
Beit Surik Community Centre – “Palestinian Embroidery and Heritage”
The Beit Surik Community Centre hosted a joyful encounter between elderly women and young female students centred on traditional Palestinian embroidery.
Participants explored the significance of embroidered clothing in Palestinian homes, once a necessity and always a form of identity and artistry. Students learned embroidery techniques directly from the grandmothers, discovering how each village has its own distinct dress and patterns reflecting its history.
The activity concluded with shared folk songs, creating a lively space celebrating Palestinian identity, womanhood, and cultural pride.
Biddu Community Centre – “Transferring Experience Between Generations”
At the Biddu Community Centre, girls joined elderly women for a hands-on heritage cooking session titled “Transferring Experience Between Generations.”
Cooking traditional meals from one’s own farm produce reflects community unity and the preservation of culinary heritage. Participants learned to prepare “Rishtaya,” guided step by step by the elderly women to ensure the dish’s traditions continue.
The event fostered joy, active participation, and a strong sense of belonging, reinforcing N.I.C.O Spaces’ objective to promote intergenerational learning, cultural preservation, and community resilience.
Stay tuned and return to ICDI’s page for more updates as we continue celebrating Palestinian traditions, fostering intergenerational learning, and building resilient, connected communities.
This project is co-funded by TRUST and ICDI. If you would like to join us in supporting Nico’s memory, you can contribute to the project here. 100% of your donations go directly toward shared meals in N.I.C.O. Spaces, helping to nourish both body and community connection.
