Lesvos' First Holistic Integration Program
Ergon provides a comprehensive integration programme that concentrates on employability, livelihoods and socio-cultural integration for refugees in Lesvos. The aim is to support refugees in enriching their skill set to find dignified employment, while fostering their gradual socio-cultural integration in the local society, by encouraging the creation of meaningful relationships both with the community and with the place. In this way, we expect to reduce informal secondary movement to other European countries, which further endangers people’s lives, while alleviating the stress of coming across an unknown society.
Employability, Livelihoods, & Socio-Cultural Integration
Ergon welcomes individuals who wish to enhance their essential life skills, gain technical qualifications and enter the job market, both from the refugee and the local community. Therefore, Ergon promotes integration, cultural exchange, and professional networking, creating meaningful connections while building marketable skills.
What we offer:
At Ergon, we believe that long-term inclusion comes from a combination of practical skills and social belonging. That’s why our approach focuses on two core pillars:
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A holistic approach to integration
Employability & Livelihoods
We employ a unique training model that combines simulated work environments with guidance from experienced Greek professionals. Participants learn directly from experts familiar with the local labor market, gaining not only technical skills but also insights into Greek work culture, ethics, and language.
The employability aspect comprises of three types of trainings, all in the pioneering industry of hospitality, which in Greece has an exponential rate of absorption of employees in the workforce:
- Kitchen Assistant Training – Entry-level culinary skills and understanding of kitchen workflow.
- Barista / Customer Service Training – Coffee-making, customer service, and front-of-house skills.
- Hotel Housekeeping Training – Cleaning standards, room setup, and proper guest room procedures.
Socio-cultural Integration
This aspect of Ergon, which works in complementarity to employability, is dedicated to promoting social and cultural integration for refugees in their host society, offering a pathway for them to harmonize their rich cultural background with that of Greece – a process known as ‘acculturation’. The program offers:
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Civic education and understanding local systems
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Cross-cultural communication and daily life orientation
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Challenging gender stereotypes and fostering respectful workplace behavior
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Exploring local history and traditions to deepen connection with Greek society
This integrated approach ensures that Ergon graduates are not only given access to dignified employment, but also that they can build a sense of belonging in their new environment.