190 young people came together to develop youth-led projects addressing real challenges
The initiative is part of UNICEF's UpShift programme, supported by ING Bank Bulgaria, which empowers young people to turn their ideas into action
- Български
- English
The participants formed 33 teams from different parts of Bulgaria, including Tutrakan, Byala Reka, Varbitsa, Sitovo, Kaspichan, Smyadovo, Novi Pazar, Valchi Dol, Pazardzhik, Momchilgrad, and many other locations – demonstrating that the potential for change truly comes from everywhere.
During the period April 24–26, one of the largest and most inspiring workshops under the UpShift programme in Bulgaria took place. Over the course of three days, nearly 190 young people from more than 30 locations – including small communities and vulnerable groups – gathered in one place to demonstrate that they have ideas and are ready to bring them to life.
Within the framework of the workshop, the young people developed ideas addressing key societal issues such as mental health and emotional well-being; digital safety and online behavior; environmental protection and sustainable lifestyles, including water conservation and sustainable agricultural practices; social inclusion and work with vulnerable groups; community engagement; as well as promotion of sports and healthy lifestyles.
With the support of mentors and experienced facilitators, participants worked through the entire process – from identifying a problem to analyzing its root causes to developing a realistic and actionable solution.
The results were impressive: dozens of youth-led projects tackling real challenges, ranging from the creation of safe spaces for peer support and communication, to campaigns promoting digital responsibility and safety, as well as initiatives focused on environmental awareness, volunteering, and social solidarity.
At the end of the workshop, several teams were awarded small-scale funding to bring their projects to life.
Among the supported projects are initiatives aimed at:
Prevention of risky online behaviour and digital addiction:
The "Cyber Guardians" team from Tutrakan is developing a chatbot to help students navigate cybersecurity topics. At the same time, the "Offline Zone" team from Shumen is creating game-based spaces and challenges to promote more balanced screen use.
Mental health support:
The "Changemakers" team from Varbitsa is developing the initiative "30 Minutes Without Bullying", which encourages dialogue, peer support, and a healthier school environment.
Youth spaces and active communities:
The "Voice of the Youth" team from the village of Byala Reka is working to create new opportunities for youth engagement and community activities in smaller localities.
Ecology and sustainable lifestyles:
The "Architects of the Senses" team from Nikola Kozlevo is developing a sensory and school garden, while the "BRIDGE" team from Silistra is working on a student-led startup focused on organic farming. In Kaspichan, the "Entrepreneurs" team is focused on improving the school environment.
Social inclusion and tolerance:
The "Empaths" team from Varna is implementing the project "Different, but Together", which brings students, parents, and teachers together through joint activities. Meanwhile, the "Nadezhda" team from the village of Obrochishte is creating shared spaces and games for children of different ages and ethnic backgrounds.
Implemented by UNICEF Bulgaria and its partners, with the support of ING Bank Bulgaria, the UpShift programme empowers young people to transform their ideas into meaningful action and lasting change in their communities.
* UNICEF does not endorse any brand, product or service.
