Crossing Borders

ALForum 2025 and HoNs Meeting

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From 18–20 June, a huge event took place in Tirana, Albania — 2025’s Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue — with over 800 participants, all coming together to mobilize dialogue as a tool for bridging gaps and peacebuilding, especially during this crazy time with all the world events we’re witnessing. Over 100 parallel sessions took place during this forum, with speakers and experts from about 43 countries, all believing in dialogue and interdependency, and making efforts in their local communities to see change, namely: co-existence, empowerment, and ultimately, peace.  With her reverent and powerful presence, Her Excellency Princess Rym Ali, President of the Anna Lindh Foundation, led the participants with her motivation and belief in dialogue and equality for all. She inspired participants to see that this event was not like any other, and that meaningful conversations, policies, and actions were its main objectives.  Crossing Borders, as the head of the Danish ALF Network, was also present, trusting in the Foundation’s mission and vision and actively taking part in it. As our continuous aim is to connect and empower people to become active citizens, we came together with other ALF networks from Luxembourg, Portugal, Estonia, and Lebanon to create a common framework of what a true path toward these aims could look like. This collaboration sparked the creation of the “Citizen Action Space,” which featured music, art, conversations, debates, and cultural exchange across more than five sessions under the same umbrella theme.  Crossing Borders’ session, “Words Across Borders” explored themes such as cultural exchange, climate action, interconnectedness, mutual understanding and solidarity, and effective communication. We began with a proverb exchange, highlighting how timeless wisdom transcends borders. Participants shared proverbs in their native languages, many of which reflected similar values across cultures. This simple yet profound activity sparked deep connections among people who had never met before.  Next, we moved into a dynamic group activity involving voice, movement, and gestures. Though fully improvised, participants managed to find a common rhythm, creating a beautiful and spontaneous harmony. It was a moving example of how collaboration and listening can transform individual expression into collective beauty.  The third station focused on climate action, emphasizing our shared responsibility as stewards of nature. Participants reflected on the urgent need to speak on behalf of the natural world which communicates through climate change and extreme events, and the importance of real behavioral change.  Finally, participants engaged with the “Domino Effect” wall, a creative space where they expressed their inner thoughts, frustrations, hopes, and calls to action. They also wrote messages addressed to those who couldn’t attend the forum, extending the impact of their reflections beyond the space.  This workshop would not have been possible without the support of the incredible co-hosting team, each bringing their unique expertise in law, psychology, arts, and communication:  Raquel Gioconda Ferreira (Luxembourg): Counselor and researcher in transpersonal psychology and cross-cultural communication  Claudine Zaarour (Lebanon): Legal researcher, founder of Unity Up, and PhD candidate in law  Kelli Eek (Estonia): Head of Communications at Mondo  Mona Soliman (Egypt): Co-founder and General Manager of Wasla for Arts  After the closure of ALForum 2025, on the 21st of June, a Heads of Networks meeting took place, bringing together the 43 country representatives to discuss key topics such as: evaluating ALForum’s takeaways, exploring new collaborations through the upcoming round of support under the Network Engagement Scheme (NES 2025–2026), and operationalizing the ALF Multi-Annual Work Programme 2025–2028.  It was such a unique experience for me, Margaret Hafez, to be the representative of the Danish network and the moderator of the session “Words Across Borders.” So many new connections, so much to reflect on, and a lot to act upon and pass on to my local community and to Crossing Borders.  Tirana was definitely the right place to hold such an event, with its hospitality, diversity, landscapes, and welcoming arms to differences, seeing them not as threats but as strengths. 

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Edu4Food Webinar: Danish Initiatives Lead the Way in Farm to Fork Innovation 

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Written by Giovanna Saturni On Thursday, May 20th, Crossing Borders hosted a dynamic and thought-provoking and youth-focused webinar exploring some of Denmark’s promising food sustainability initiatives. The event was held as part of the Edu4Food project, an initiative aimed at fostering innovation, collaboration, and education around sustainable food systems across the continent.  Bringing together a diverse group of speakers, practitioners, and engaged participants, the webinar unfolded over the course of a full afternoon. The event was structured into three thematic, hour-long sessions, each showcasing different aspects of Denmark’s Farm to Fork sector.  The goal of the webinar was to provide a platform for dialogue and knowledge-sharing around innovative, community-driven approaches to food and sustainability. Each session opened with an introduction to the Edu4Food project, outlining its objectives and relevant outputs, before moving on to presentations from guest speakers whose work focuses on sustainable practices in action.  Farm to Fork Innovation  Participants were introduced to seven different initiatives, each tackling food sustainability from a different perspective. The speakers each gave an engaging, comprehensive presentation on their work.   Among them was Emil Kleis Boll, on behalf of Matr, a Danish company focused on plant-based food innovation through the art of fungi fermentation. Matr’s mission is to develop flavorful, nutrient-rich vegan products that offer a sustainable alternative to traditional animal-based foods. Their approach focuses on minimizing the ecological footprint of food production while maintaining culinary quality.  Another standout presentation came from Anne Stald Møllmann, who discussed her work at Havhøst, a marine agriculture organization devoted to regenerative aquaculture. By cultivating seaweed and shellfish, Havhøst not only contributes to cleaner ocean ecosystems but also promotes scalable models for sea-based food systems that work with nature rather than against it.  For the second session, the fight against food waste was taken up by Madboks, a local Copenhagen-based initiative that has developed a hands-on system for collecting, sorting, and redistributing surplus food. The speakers, Pauline Blondet & Wasiem von Heydebrand, discussed how their work bridges environmental activism with social impact, ensuring that edible food does not end up in landfills but instead reaches those in need, and welcomed interested participants to reach out and get involved in their processes.   The webinar also spotlighted Byaasgaard Naturecamping and Micro-farm, which integrates organic agriculture with eco-tourism to educate visitors about regenerative land use.   Meanwhile, the third session focused on educational opportunities in the sustainable food area. Sault Avery, from SolRa, an organization focused on agroforestry, shared insights into how regenerative land practices can serve as powerful educational tools to inspire future generations of farmers and environmental stewards.   Regeneration as a Common Thread  While each speaker brought their own unique perspective, an overarching theme quickly emerged over the course of the afternoon: regeneration. Whether discussing land, sea, or community, the concept of restoring rather than depleting resources became a central pillar across the sessions.  Speakers emphasized the urgent need to transition from exploitative models of food production to regenerative ones that not only sustain but actively revive ecosystems. This narrative echoed the broader goals of the Edu4Food project, which aims to foster local innovation in food systems while equipping youth with the tools to create systemic change.  Platform for Dialogue and Engagement  With around 30 attendees, the webinar struck a balance between intimacy and impact. Each session concluded with a dedicated Q&A session, sparking engaging exchanges between participants and speakers. These discussions were moderated by Crossing Borders’ Andrew Gibbons, the project coordinator for Edu4Food, whose facilitation helped connect thematic dots across sessions.  Notably, the second session focused on initiatives with volunteer engagement opportunities, highlighting the crucial role of citizen participation in driving sustainable change. The third and final session delved into education as a catalyst for long-term transformation in food systems.  Cultivating a Sustainable Future  The Edu4Food webinar succeeded not only in showcasing Denmark’s sustainability initiatives but also in reinforcing the idea that food systems transformation requires collective effort. From grassroots innovation, innovative sustainable business models to advocacy, the presentations revealed the multifaceted nature of sustainability, and the many pathways towards it.  In a world increasingly defined by environmental urgency, the initiatives featured in the webinar offer hopeful points of reference for how we might feed ourselves without feeding the climate crisis. By championing regeneration, education, and community involvement, they remind us that the journey from farm to fork can also be a journey toward ecological renewal.  As the Edu4Food project continues to unfold, events like this serve as opportunities for reflection, collaboration, and action, reminding us that the future of food is not only about what we eat, but how, where, and why we produce it.  Did you miss the webinar? well check out the complete presentation here! Download Slides

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Rasmus Grue Christensen on Life, Justice, and DIGNITY #FoodForThought

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As the evening begins, the room fills with a sense of anticipation and reflection. The audience, a mix of curious minds, professionals, and advocates for human rights, settles in for what promises to be a meaningful experience. The speaker of the evening is none other than Rasmus Grue Christensen, the director of DIGNITY – Danish Institute Against Torture. His presence immediately brings a sense of purpose and gravity to the room. Rasmus opens the evening with a deeply personal anecdote. He takes us back to his early twenties, to a small apartment tucked away in Vesterbro. One night, plagued by uncertainty about the future, he woke abruptly—by chance or fate—and wandered into the living room. There, in the dim glow of a television screen or a newspaper ad, he stumbled upon a call for applications to a human rights program. Something about it struck a chord. In that quiet moment, he knew this was the path he wanted to follow. That seemingly random encounter became a turning point, a milestone that shaped not only his career but his entire sense of purpose. He then invites the audience into a story about friendship, one that illustrates the complex intersections of upbringing and social environment. He reflects on the differences between his own childhood: loving, stable, and supported, and that of a close friend who grew up in a marginalized, foreign minority community marked by neglect. Through this heartfelt contrast, he speaks to the invisible architecture of social randomness: how the conditions we’re born into can define the opportunities—or lack thereof—that follow. This storytelling isn’t just nostalgic; it’s insightful. It draws a clear line between the past and the present, between individual experience and societal structure. It’s a reminder that today’s struggles, especially those faced by children in vastly unequal environments can be rooted in this randomness. It was in his teenage years, he says, that he knew he wanted to fight these injustices, to push back against a system that allows such disparities to flourish. Rasmus doesn’t stop there. He shares another compelling element of his journey: a fascination—almost an obsession—with understanding the darkest sides of human behavior. What drives a person to commit acts of unspeakable violence? What leads to genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity? It was this haunting curiosity, he explains, that propelled him toward a career built on confronting these horrors head-on. With conviction, he presents a clear personal philosophy that guides his work and life: “Manage without profit.” It’s not just a motto—it’s a declaration. A call to pursue justice and dignity not for personal gain, but because it is necessary. Because the world demands it. As the evening continues, it’s clear that the tone has been set. We are not just here to listen—we are here to reflect, to question, and to be inspired. And thanks to Rasmus’s candid and thoughtful introduction, we are ready.

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CKI Embarks on New SIRIUS4all Journey in Berlin Exploring “The Sounds of Europe”

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The Center for Kunst og Interkultur (CKI) is preparing for the next chapter of the SIRIUS4all project, taking place in Berlin, Germany in early May. Hosted by SABAA.education, this upcoming gathering will explore how sound and music can help shape a new, inclusive European narrative. Under the theme “The Sounds of Europe,” this edition of SIRIUS4all brings together partners and artists from Germany, Bulgaria, Italy, Portugal, and Denmark to collectively reflect on pressing questions: What is Europe? Who is it for? And how can the arts play a vital role as Europe reshapes itself for an evolving future? CKI representatives Anna and Niels will be joined by Copenhagen-based artists Ayaz Shah and Rebecca Langley, who will participate in discussions, share artistic perspectives, and engage in international networking. “We are excited to continue this journey with our European partners. Each meeting deepens the dialogue about belonging, identity, and the transformative power of art,” said Anna of CKI. SIRIUS4all is a European collaboration focused on cultural participation, inclusion, and redefining European identity through interdisciplinary artistic practices. To learn more about the project, visit www.sirius4all.eu and follow CKI on Instagram at @centerforkunstoginterkultur.  SIRIUS4all Partners: SABAA.education (Germany) A25 Cultural Foundation (Bulgaria) Luoghi Comuni (Italy) Mapa das Ideias (Portugal) CKI – Center for Kunst og Interkultur (Denmark)

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Mellemfolkeligt Samvirke Launches Preparations for Climate Justice Days 2025 in Copenhagen

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Preparations are officially underway for Climate Justice Days 2025, set to take place from September 15th to 21st in Copenhagen. Hosted by Mellemfolkeligt Samvirke (Action Aid), the initiative aims to mobilize citizens through a week of community-driven events focused on climate action and social justice. As part of the lead-up, the organization held introductory meetings on April 22nd and will host another on May 7th at its headquarters on Fælledvej 12. The sessions, held both in-person and online, introduce participants to the goals of Climate Justice Days and explore opportunities for public involvement in event organization. Climate Justice Days is known for its wide-ranging grassroots events, from debates and concerts to community dinners and creative workshops, all aiming to highlight the intersection of climate change and social inequality. The initiative seeks not only to raise awareness but also to challenge the structural systems contributing to the climate crisis. The upcoming September program promises to reflect this diversity, offering Copenhageners a space to learn, connect, and act together in the fight for climate justice.   For more information about the initiative or to follow its development, the public can contact the organizing team at frivillig@ms.dk.   To become a volunteer, learn more here: https://fb.me/e/e7GZuh0fm Climate Justice Days 2025 FB Event: https://fb.me/e/5DKwe2lP9  

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Food for Thought with Phillippa Maigaard Filtenborg – Stories That Stay With You

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On April 30 we held our monthly Food for Thought event, where we were honored to host journalist, author, and lecturer Phillippa Maigaard Filtenborg. With warmth, and deep insight, Phillippa led us through an unforgettable conversation that explored identity, privilege, the media’s role in shaping perception, and the powerful intersection between personal and political narratives. Phillippa’s journey as a media professional is rich and layered. Holding a Master’s degree in Journalism and English from Roskilde University (RUC), she has navigated both Danish and Greenlandic media landscapes, bringing stories to light with clarity and compassion. Her career spans high-impact news reporting, live broadcasting, and strategic communication, but this evening, it was her human experience that captivated us most.  Born in Sri Lanka and adopted by a Danish family at just three months old, Phillippa shared openly about her multicultural background and how it continues to shape her understanding of belonging and identity. These themes echoed deeply in her reflections on living and reporting from Greenland.  In her recent book, På Hovedet I Snedriven, Phillippa peels back the layers of her time in Greenland. She reflected that the urge to write this book came from within,a need to process what went wrong and what went right during her time there. With honesty, she spoke about the complexities of reporting on Greenlandic people through the lens of Danish media, often criticized for portraying Greenlanders as not Danish enough. She emphasized how these narratives overlook the vastly different contexts in which people live, and the structural inequalities that shape those differences.  Phillippa acknowledged her own privilege as a Dane in Greenland, and the responsibility she carries as a storyteller. Her time as a live reporter for Danish National TV gave her a front-row seat to how media frames identity, and her mission now, as a journalist and author, is to challenge and change those frames with nuance and empathy.  One of the most poignant moments of the evening came when Phillippa shared her experience moderating former U.S. President Barack Obama’s presentation at Næstved Arena in 2024. Just three weeks prior, she had lost her adoptive father. It was an emotionally charged moment, and she recalled with visible emotion how the very first thing President Obama said to her backstage was, “I’m sorry for your loss.” That small act of empathy from one of the world’s most influential figures left a lasting impression on her, not just as a journalist, but as a human being navigating grief and responsibility at once.  The evening wrapped up with a flavorful vegetarian meal from Send Flere Krydderier, a social enterprise restaurant celebrated for its tasty Middle Eastern dishes and commitment to community. As guests gathered around the table, the conversations continued, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that brought people closer together. 

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Phillippa’s Journey in Media and Identity #FoodForThought

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Last night, we had the pleasure of welcoming journalist and communications expert Phillippa Maigaard Filtenborg for an inspiring evening of stories, insights, and meaningful dialogue as part of our monthly Food for Thought events. The conversation was moderated by our director, Garba Diallo. With a rich background in broadcast media and strategic communication, Phillippa brought a unique perspective shaped by her extensive work experience across both Danish and Greenlandic media landscapes. One of the evening’s highlights was a brief screening of Phillippa’s moment on stage with President Barack Obama during his visit to Denmark last year. She had the rare honour of moderating his presentation at the Næstved Arena. The audience was captivated by her interesting anecdotes from the event with Obama. Phillippa also spoke about her recent publication, a book exploring Greenland, which sparked a vibrant discussion about culture, representation, and the debates on colonial legacy, privileges and the role of the media regarding Greenland and the Arctic region. The talk naturally transitioned into an engaging Q&A session, where attendees commented and asked thoughtful questions and exchanged ideas with Phillippa in an open and lively atmosphere. The evening concluded with a delicious vegetarian dinner prepared by Send Flere Krydderier, a social enterprise restaurant known for its delicious Middle Eastern cuisine and community-driven mission. Sharing food and continuing conversations at the table rounded off the night with a sense of connection and shared curiosity.

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General Assembly 2025: A Celebration of Unity, Dialogue, and Global Impact

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As attendees settled into the welcoming space, Project Coordinator Margaret and Creative Coordinator Tanya opened the Crossing Borders General Assembly with warm greetings. The room was filled with energy as participants introduced themselves, representing a rich tapestry of nationalities, professions, and connections to the CB community. Dr. Phaedria took the stage alongside CB Director Garba Diallo to reflect on the highlights of 2024. Describing Crossing Borders as “the most diverse place in Denmark,” Dr. Phaedria emphasized the power of dialogue in the face of rising authoritarianism. Referencing dystopian literature like 1984 and The Handmaid’s Tale, she drew a compelling link between fiction and real-world threats, underscoring the urgent need for empowered communities and open dialogue. Garba followed with a thought-provoking speech on global inequality, climate change, and the fractured nature of international allyship. He praised CB’s commitment to “walking the talk”—from local youth-led school workshops to global partnerships in Uganda, Armenia, and Egypt. Projects like Food for Thought and Youth for Ukraine illustrate the organization’s mission to foster storytelling, cultural exchange, and youth empowerment across borders. The assembly then turned to updates on CB’s flagship initiatives. Project manager Mia Toftdahl, joined by facilitator Egle, presented the school workshops that engaged young people across Denmark with support from partners like Åbne Skole and Fredensborg Kommune. The YES project took Danish 8th graders to Ghana, sparking global awareness and cross-cultural learning. Tanya introduced Food for Thought, a storytelling platform that bridges communities through shared experiences. Margaret shared upcoming intercultural projects with the Anna Lindh Foundation, including a major 2025 event in Albania. Andrew presented the Migrantour Copenhagen, inviting participants to explore the city through migrant perspectives. Elisabeth followed with the Empowering Ukrainian Youth Project, supported by Egmont and SPARNORD, focused on integration, connection, and opportunity for displaced youth. On the EU front, ten dynamic projects wrapped up in 2024, covering topics from sustainable food systems to digital citizenship, anti-racism, and inclusion. Programs like Edu4Food and Earth Heroes will continue into 2025, as CB expands its focus on education, creativity, and impact. Garba also shared insights from CB’s global programme, including sustainability projects in Zimbabwe and Morocco, women’s empowerment in India, and SDG localization in Uganda. After a poetry and music interlude by Tina, he returned to present the 2024 financial report and the strategic priorities for 2025—emphasizing digital presence, funding, partnerships, and advocacy. The assembly concluded with board elections. In a surprise twist, Lili Juul-Lou withdrew her candidacy, turning the vote into a formal procedure. The newly elected board members for 2025 are: Karen Blincoe, Richard Walakira, Ellen Eide, Idongesit Williams, Samay Hamed, Gustav Eik Thur, Kannan P. Samy (Substitute), and Helene Guldborg (Substitute). Together, they will help steer Crossing Borders into another impactful year of fostering dialogue, diversity, and sustainable change—locally and globally. Written by Shani Schmidt, Intern at Crossing Borders

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A Journey of Humanitarian Impact with Jonas Nøddekær #FoodForThought 

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The atmosphere is set, the anticipation palpable, as distinguished guests gather for an inspiring evening hosted by Crossing Borders. DanChurchAid’s General Secretary, Jonas Nøddekær, stands ready to share his extraordinary journey. With a warm welcome and a thought-provoking introduction, he begins his storytelling, transporting the audience back to where it all started—his university years. In 2000, Nøddekær earned his diploma in Political Science from the University of Copenhagen. Little did he know that this academic milestone would be the foundation for a remarkable career dedicated to humanitarian service. With vivid anecdotes, he takes the audience on a journey across the globe, illustrating the profound impact of DanChurchAid’s work in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions. His stories are more than just tales of travel—they are powerful narratives of resilience, courage, and the transformative power of humanitarian aid. From disaster-stricken communities to conflict zones, Nøddekær sheds light on the human faces behind global crises. He recounts encounters with extraordinary individuals whose determination and bravery have left an indelible mark on his life and career. One of the most compelling moments of the evening is his reflection on the recent conflict in Ukraine. As Russia’s invasion unfolded, DanChurchAid swiftly mobilized to provide crucial support to Ukrainian citizens. Through acts of solidarity and resourceful humanitarian efforts, the organization played a vital role in helping the people of Ukraine stand against a superpower, embodying the true spirit of resilience and hope. Nøddekær’s journey is not just about his personal evolution but also about witnessing the expansion of democracy and humanitarian progress across foreign regions. His experiences paint a picture of an ever-changing world, where individuals and organizations can make a lasting impact. The evening concludes with an atmosphere of empowerment, leaving the audience inspired by the possibilities of global change and the power of crossing borders—not just physically, but in understanding, compassion, and action. Written by Shani Schmidt, Intern at Crossing Borders

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Celebrating Women’s Stories at the IWD Event with Crossing Borders 

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From the moment the Crossing Borders (CB) staff welcomed guests to the International Women’s Day (IWD) event, the atmosphere was already buzzing with excitement. As attendees arrived, they were greeted with a delightful spread of food and snacks, setting the stage for an engaging and inspiring evening. The event officially kicked off with warm introductions by CB director Garba and lead project coordinator Margaret. Their opening remarks highlighted the significance of cultural diversity and the importance of uplifting women across the world. This powerful introduction seamlessly led into the main program, immersing the audience in a celebration of stories, music, and performance. The show began with an electrifying musical performance of Puzzle Pieces Apart, by Pernille Johansson, a song that encapsulates the essence of what Crossing Borders represents. This was followed by a soulful rendition of Nina Simone’s Feeling Good, which instantly set the mood and deeply moved the audience. The combination of these performances created an unforgettable start to the evening, resonating with the crowd on an emotional level. As the night progressed, anticipation grew for the next segment—the storytelling performance. The actresses took the stage, bringing to life the stories of women from diverse backgrounds. This was a passion project, meticulously curated by the event’s organizers and the talented performers, all of whom volunteered their time and effort. Their dedication emphasized the authenticity and integrity of the project, making it all the more powerful. The Lonely Soldier Monologues was the most compelling piece of the evening, an autobiographical storytelling performance that chronicled the experiences of six women serving in the U.S. Army and their journey through Iraq. This gripping narrative shed light on the unique challenges these women faced, offering an unfiltered glimpse into their lives and struggles. The raw and unfiltered description of the sexual harassment, violence and discrimination that these women faced during their time in the army, shunned a light on the ongoing injustices that women faced and are still facing in a male-dominated field. The IWD event hosted by CB was more than just a gathering—it was a profound celebration of resilience, empowerment, and the power of storytelling. Through music, performance, and shared experiences, the night honoured the voices of women from all walks of life, leaving an indelible mark on all those who attended. Ending the event on a rather delightful note, a pleasant rendition of Blackstreet’s No Diggity was played, which send of the audience feeling lighter and empowered by the impactful performance.

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