Young volunteers in Chernivtsi map out next steps with Youth Connect for Ukraine
Chernivtsi has brought young people together through Youth Connect for Ukraine, closing the programme with a Young Volunteers Forum.
Delivered using the British Council’s practical methodology, the Youth Connect for Ukraine leadership training asks participants to work with real-life cases, sharpen communication and critical thinking, strengthen teamwork, and develop project ideas ready for public presentation. The most promising social initiatives can then move forward with British Council mentoring and grant support.
The forum drew more than 110 participants. It opened up a focused conversation on volunteering as a civic force, community resilience, support for military personnel and civilians, and what active citizenship looks like in practice.
Participants explored volunteering pathways with a range of organisations and initiatives. They heard more about the work of the Chernivtsi Regional Military Administration and the “Ty yak?” (“How are you?”) initiative run by the Regional Centre for Social Services, and learned about opportunities offered by the Civil Preparedness Centre. Additional volunteering options were presented by the Ukrainian Red Cross Society, the CBG Charity foundation, and local initiatives.
The facilitated part of the Forum included a “World Café”, where participants jointly developed a short guide for young people who are just starting their volunteering journey.
The forum was organised with the support from the NGO Molod Bukovyny, the Youth and Sports Department of the Chernivtsi Regional Military Administration, and the Youth Council under the Chernivtsi Regional State Administration.
Teamwork now continues beyond the event. Participants are finalising their own social action projects, with selected proposals eligible for grant support to be implemented locally.
Youth Connect for Ukraine is implemented by the British Council in Ukraine. The regional partner in Chernivtsi Oblast is the NGO Molod Bukovyny.