Youth Power, together with Be A Man Club Mostar, participated in second Regional Youth Leadership Camp at National Park Tjentište in Sutjeska, Bosnia and Herzegovina that was organized by CARE International Balkans and the Young Men Initiative. From June 29th to July 3rd, 2023, over 50 young people from various regions came together for this transformative experience.
The participants of the camp were carefully selected based on their demonstrated leadership potential and remarkable involvement in their schools, local communities, and Be a Man Clubs. Throughout the camp, both boys and girls actively engaged in a dynamic leadership educational program, aimed at developing their leadership skills, promoting healthy lifestyles, and fostering overall youth development. This initiative was part of the Young Men Initiative and Future for Youth movement.
The workshops at the camp were led by exceptional peer educators from partner organizations who received specialized training prior to the event. Their role was to effectively transfer knowledge and empower the participants with valuable insights and practical skills. Over the course of five days, the participants had the opportunity to apply the knowledge acquired in the workshops and enhance their teamwork abilities through engaging team-building activities.
Some of the core topics that were covered in the workshops were:
- insights into the value of leadership in everyday activities
- basic leadership concepts and significance of leadership in terms of ethical values, as well as the difference between power, influence, and authority
- public speaking and communication skills
One of the educators on camp Diyala Kratovac (16) from Sarajevo showed excitement to be part of this huge event again. “It was an amazing experience having the opportunity to experience camp again this year as an educator. I enjoyed sharing the knowledge I possess with others on an interesting and different approach, and along the way meeting wonderful people that share similar interests to me” – Diyala said.
Moreover, the camp served as a platform for participants to meet individuals from diverse cultures, broaden their perspectives, and establish friendships with peers from across the Balkan region. This intercultural exchange fostered a sense of unity and collaboration, enriching their overall experience.
“It was a great honor for me to participate in the Regional Leadership Camp. I met young people from whom I learned a lot, formed strong friendships, and had the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and be part of an incredible adventure. This camp has given me self-confidence and courage to continue working on myself, to grow as a leader, and to inspire other young people with my passion.”- said Mia Selena Lerch (18), participant from Banja Luka.
The second Regional Youth Leadership Camp was a resounding success, empowering young leaders and nurturing their potential. It served as a catalyst for personal growth, cultural understanding, and lasting connections. Through initiatives like this, CARE International Balkans and the Young Men Initiative are actively contributing to the positive development of youth in the region.
Youth Leadership Camp is organized in partnership with Institute for Population and Development (IPD) from Sarajevo, Youth Power from Mostar, Perpetuum Mobile from Banja Luka, Land of Children in BiH from Tuzla, PRONI from Bijeljina, Forum Theatre from East Sarajevo, OTAHARIN from Bijeljina, Center E8 and Smart Kolektiv from Belgrade, SIT from Pristina and Act for Society from Tirana.
The organization of YMI Regional Youth Leadership Camp is supported by the Government of Switzerland, through the project “Young Men Initiative (YMI): Promoting Healthier Lifestyles and Decrease of Interpersonal Violence among Youth in Bosnia and Herzegovina by Challenging Gender Stereotypes; Phase III” and “Future for You(th): Young people as Leaders of Life Skills Education in the Balkans” funded by Austrian Development Cooperation, CARE Germany and Oak Foundation.