BEYOND THE FRAME was designed in response to the growing need to prevent youth violence, delinquency, and the psychosocial burden experienced by adolescents. Through artistic expression and participatory photography, the programme seeks to empower middle and high school students by strengthening self-expression, empathy, critical thinking, and peaceful coexistence within both the school and the broader social environment.
BEYOND THE FRAME addresses young people aged 12–18, with a particular focus on schools located in areas facing increased social challenges. At the same time, it actively involves teachers, parents, and support professionals, reinforcing the relationship between school, family, and community.
The main objectives of the programme are:
- the prevention of youth violence and delinquent behaviour
- the enhancement of adolescents’ mental resilience and self-esteem
- the creation of safe spaces for dialogue and expression within the school context
The programme is implemented within the school framework and includes:
- discussion circles and focus groups with students
- experiential photography and storytelling workshops
- guided photographic missions within the school and social environment
- playback theatre activities, where personal experiences are transformed into theatrical performance
- a public presentation or exhibition of students’ work, aiming to foster dialogue with the wider community
- a digital archive showcasing the students’ creative outputs
The methodological approach of BEYOND THE FRAME is holistic and experiential, combining practices from art therapy, non-formal education, participatory art, and psychosocial support. The programme is delivered by an interdisciplinary team of artists and mental health professionals.
Through their participation, young people gain a voice, strengthen their sense of belonging, and contribute to shaping a safer and more inclusive school and social environment.
The project Beyond The Frame is implemented within the framework of the PLATO programme, with the implementing organisation being amaka.The programme “Protecting democracy, human rights and the rule of law through an open civic space” (PLATO) aims to strengthen the protection of fundamental EU rights and values and raise awareness of them by supporting Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Greece and Cyprus that operate in these fields. It also enhances their knowledge, capacities, and long-term sustainability. PLATO is co-funded by the European Union through the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme, the Bodossaki Foundation, and the NGO Support Centre, with a total grant amount of €3.1 million. The coordinator of PLATO is the Bodossaki Foundation (Greece), in partnership with the NGO Support Centre (Cyprus).
