About us

We advocate for social inclusion, an acknowledgement of a shared history, equal opportunities and a celebration of cultures and skills.

We recognise people for their skills, experiences, future ambitions and goals.

Founded in 2017 in Luxembourg & Greece

Trainings since September 2018

Dedicated team of 15 to 20 people

Over 1600 registered students

Strong collaborative network of partners

Education

We intend to strengthen the unemployed community in Athens.
We support vulnerable communities (asylum-seekers, refugees, migrants, people seeking employment,...) in Athens by offering:

Language classes and workshops in Greek
Sewing classes
Crafting Careers Program for tailoring
Workshops on upcycling and handicrafts

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Ethical Manufacturing

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Our social business activities offer job opportunities to experienced workers and/or former ANKAA students.

Our products reflect and promote sustainability for the people, the project and the planet.

We use upcycled, local or organic materials and try to implement the principles of circular economy in all our processes. We offer an ethical working environment and a fair wage to our makers.

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Our Journey Unfolded:
The ANKAA Project Timeline

2016 - 2017: The early beginnings

Embark on the origins of ANKAA in 2016, ignited by the volunteering of our co-founders in various areas in Greece – Idomeni, Thessaloniki, Athens, and Chios. In the midst of volunteering on Chios in 2017, the idea for ANKAA Project was born, driven by a vision of creating sustainable solutions and amplifying the voices of those in need.

2017 - 2018: Athens Research Odyssey

Fast forward to a six-month period of intensive needs assessment in Athens. Through meetings, interviews, and an online survey, we explored the specific needs of displaced individuals, revealing a focus on language learning, skill development, and employment. With a clear vision, in April 2018 ANKAA rented its first space in Votanikos.

2018: Building Foundations

A dedicated team of friends and volunteers worked tirelessly to prepare and renovate our space. ANKAA officially registers as a non-profit organization in Greece after being established in Luxembourg in 2017.

2018: Building Foundations

In September 2018, we officially launched our educational programs.

What does ANKAA mean?

The Ankaa star is the brightest star in the constellation of Phoenix, a symbol of rebirth, renewal and hope.

From Arabic and Latin roots, Ankaa stands for the 'star of the skiff', guiding the way for travellers of the sea.

Together we want to light a new path for travellers fleeing war and persecution, as they continue to write their stories and build their futures.

About Us

Education

We intend to strengthen the unemployed community in Athens. We support vulnerable communities (asylum-seekers, refugees, migrants, people seeking employment,...) in Athens by offering:

Language classes and workshops in Greek

Sewing classes

Crafting Careers Program for tailoring