Advanced Planning Visit (APV) in Peru

As part of our project STARRY – Solidarity Targeted Activities Run by Rising Youth, under the ESC Humanitarian Aid program, we conducted an Advanced Planning Visit (APV) in Peru from May 6 to 8, 2025.

The visit was hosted by our local partner organisation Brigada de Voluntarios Bolivarianos del Perú (BVBP) in the districts of Punta Negra, San Bartolo, and Lurín—communities where the upcoming volunteering activities will take place. Representatives from the supporting organisations EPEKA and Building Bridges joined the visit to prepare for the arrival of ESC volunteers and ensure the alignment of project goals with the needs of the local population.

On May 6, the team visited schools in Punta Negra and San Bartolo, where future volunteer activities will be implemented. They also toured the volunteer housing facilities in Punta Negra to assess safety, comfort, and accessibility for incoming participants.

On May 7, the group visited “Santa María Reyna” school and conducted an interview with a volunteer from the International Civil Service, gathering insights into ongoing initiatives and community engagement. Later, they visited the Technical Productive Education Center (CETPRO) “Santísima Trinidad” in Lurín to explore collaboration opportunities and better understand the educational landscape in the region.

The APV concluded on May 8 with a coordination meeting to finalize project logistics and discuss adjustments to the volunteering plan. This session ensured that all stakeholders are aligned on the project’s goals, timelines, and expected impact.

The volunteering activities in Peru will focus on women’s rights and gender equality. ESC volunteers will lead workshops and trainings for girls and women, promote leadership development, and facilitate both online and in-person awareness campaigns addressing violence against women. They will also support community events and work to build partnerships with local stakeholders for long-term, collaborative initiatives aimed at prevention.

This APV was crucial in laying the foundation for a safe, meaningful, and impactful volunteering experience that upholds the values of solidarity, empowerment, and sustainable community engagement embodied by the STARRY project.