The word Shanarani has its origins in the indigenous people of Purépecha. It is a valid name for both girls and boys, and sums up the desire to challenge stereotypes and discrimination arising from gender-identity issues.

The Shanarani Youth-led project brings together 5 countries (the UK, Greece, Italy, Spain and Romania) to deliver this youth-led, transnational project that will develop, test and implement innovative practices to help combat gender-based discrimination, stereotyping and social exclusion.

Gender discrimination is a persistent issue, which according to many surveys is shared among European countries. We also know that discriminatory incidents due to gender results in young people withdrawing from social and educational environments. 

Furthermore, it provokes psychological issues that can result to social withdrawal, reduced  academic performance and cases of early school leaving with long term effects, such as social exclusion and marginalization. Therefore, it affects young peoples’ social inclusion, and has a continuous effect throughout their lifetime. Shanarani will tackle this issue in the non-formal educational environment and will create tools and support for both young people and professionals working with young people.