Youth voices leading change in the Mitrovica region
Young people across the Mitrovica region are proving that when given the right support, they can turn ideas into action and drive real change in their communities.
Young people across the Mitrovica region are proving that when given the right support, they can turn ideas into action and drive real change in their communities. Through Austrian Development Agency support, programmes such as UPSHIFT, Podium, and Ponder, implemented by UNICEF, adolescents and youth are not only learning new skills but also gaining the confidence to lead, innovate, and advocate for better communities. The experiences of these young people show the creativity that emerges when adolescents are empowered with skills, mentorship, and opportunities.
“The experience in the programme was excellent — I learned many new things and gained valuable knowledge. This programme empowered me to stand up for my own initiatives and to present them confidently with a well-developed plan. I met new people, made friends, and overall had a really great time.”
— Petra Bozovic, Zubin Potok
Petra’s experience reflects the heart of the programme: creating safe, inspiring spaces where young people can explore ideas, build their confidence, and learn how to turn challenges into opportunities.
“During the Ponder programme, I gained important skills in critical thinking, teamwork, and public speaking. I learned how to turn ideas into concrete projects and how to collaborate with others in solving social issues. These experiences helped me build confidence and communication skills that were crucial in finding my job.” — Marija Stanojevic, North Mitrovica
Marija’s journey shows how non-formal education can shape life paths, giving young people not only practical skills but also the mindset they need to succeed.
“The project ‘Smart Bench’, which my team and I worked on, brought me a lot of great experiences, new skills, and wonderful time spent with people ready for teamwork. Deciding to participate in it was definitely one of the best decisions I’ve made, and I’ll be happy to join another opportunity in the future.” — Mateja Petrovic, Leposavic
Mateja’s “Smart Bench” initiative, alongside dozens of youth-led projects across the region, demonstrates how creativity and teamwork can turn simple ideas into solutions that benefit an entire school or community. From transforming a schoolyard with a solar-powered bench that provides charging ports and free Wi-Fi, to designing a colorful Creative Corner at the “Nikola Tesla” Primary School that inspires imagination and joyful learning, young people are re-shaping their environments in ways that respond to real needs.
Across these initiatives, adolescents openly share their experiences, challenges, and hopes for a more inclusive and connected future. Their stories show that when given opportunity young people remain determined to grow, contribute, and build stronger communities.
“For many young people in the Mitrovica region, opportunities to take initiative or influence their community are limited by a complex political and social environment. That is exactly why these programmes matter. When young people are given even a small space to lead, create, and be heard, they use it thoughtfully and responsibly - not just for themselves, but for the communities they live in.” said Ivana Milosavljevic, UNICEF Kosovo.
From 2020 to 2025, UNICEF- and Austrian Development Agency-supported initiatives, in the Mitrovica region, have engaged over 10,000 adolescents, strengthened youth leadership, and inspired a growing culture of volunteerism and civic participation. Whether through UPSHIFT’s social innovation model, Podium’s advocacy training, or Ponder’s media literacy and critical thinking learning, young people are gaining the tools to make positive changes in their communities.
Their voices, creativity, and courage show that when young people are supported, they can drive social cohesion, build connections across communities, and lead the way toward a more peaceful and inclusive future.
