As part of the youth engagement program for the revitalization of Ukraine, a new youth exchange called «VIdNOVA:UA» was held.

From August 10 to 14, in Plusyvka, Mykolaiv region

This time, Plusyvka united 30 young individuals from 10 regions of Ukraine:

• 16 girls
• 14 boys
• including 4 internally displaced persons

Together, we revitalized 120 m² of youth space, which will again serve as a venue for meetings, learning, and new initiatives.

Over 5 enriching days in the Bashtanka community, we combined teamwork, education, creativity, and recreation:

Universal design — a trainer shared principles of accessibility and helped us envision how spaces can be comfortable for everyone.

A tour of Bashtanka — we got acquainted with the city’s history, its museum, and a former German colony.

Youth participation in decision-making — a panel discussion with the head of the Youth Council and an education department representative about tools for influencing community development.

Critical thinking and countering propaganda — learning to recognize fakes and manipulations while protecting oneself in the information space.

Pottery workshop — we created our own clay masterpieces.

Kayaking — we discovered the beauty of the local nature from a new perspective.

Evening bonfire and tasty shashlik — warm conversations, laughter, and the light of a fire that brings us together.

«RENEWAL:UA» — it’s not just about restoring buildings; it’s about restoring hearts, faith, and unity. This youth engagement program for revitalizing Ukraine through youth exchanges is being implemented by the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine, the All-Ukrainian Youth Center, UNDP Ukraine in partnership with the NGO «Youth Center of Volyn» with the funding from the governments of Denmark and Japan, and as part of the National Strategy for creating barrier-free spaces in Ukraine, initiated by the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska.