Training sessions, mini-projects and activities: how the Red Cross youth space works in Mykolaiv

Youth space of the Mykolaiv Regional Organisation of the Red Cross Society of Ukraine. Photo: NikVesti

In Mykolaiv, there is a youth space supported by the Danish Red Cross, where young people can participate in training sessions, develop their own projects, play board games, and watch films.

This was reported by Ihor Ivanochka, regional youth development coordinator of the Mykolaiv Regional Organisation of the Red Cross Society of Ukraine, according to NikVesti.

According to him, the space was created to implement youth initiatives, hold events for young people and volunteers, and conduct training activities. Volunteers from the Ukrainian Red Cross were involved in furnishing the premises — they carried out repairs and equipped the space.

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Among the areas of work is the LifeSkills youth initiative, which focuses on developing basic life skills. During thematic meetings, young people discuss important issues, including communication, empathy, active listening, and motivation.

The Sprint initiative is also being implemented in the space — workshops lasting 4–6 hours, during which participants can create their own socially useful mini-projects. After that, the Red Cross helps to bring them to life.

«These are not grants, but mini-projects aimed at activating young people. For example, setting up a street cinema, arranging recreation areas, repairing benches or improving conditions in bomb shelters. If young people see a problem — for example, the lack of internet in a shelter — they develop a project, and we help to implement it: we purchase the necessary equipment and help with the organisation,» said Ihor Ivanochka.

According to him, the space usually operates from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., but if young people need it, the schedule can be changed, including holding events on weekends or in the evening, taking into account the curfew.

«There have been cases when meetings were held after 8:00 p.m., and evenings and events were organised on weekends. The space is flexible and works according to the needs of young people,» said Ihor Ivanochka.

Youth space of the Mykolaiv Regional Organisation of the Red Cross Society of Ukraine. Photo: NikVesti

Youth space of the Mykolaiv Regional Organisation of the Red Cross Society of Ukraine. Photo: NikVesti

Youth space of the Mykolaiv Regional Organisation of the Red Cross Society of Ukraine. Photo: NikVesti

As a reminder, a STEM laboratory was opened in Mykolaiv in the Khvylia youth space. Young people can use the library, 3D printer, laser, heat press, VR glasses and Sony PS game console free of charge, as well as take part in master classes and educational events.