YE Youth Reporters

YE yEUth reporters

From September 21st to 27th, 2025, the Slovak team participated in the Youth Exchange – Citizen Journalism project, held in Varna, Bulgaria. The event brought together young people from Slovakia, Romania, Serbia, and Bulgaria, whose common goal was to develop skills in citizen journalism, critical thinking, and active citizenship.

Throughout the week, we engaged in various interactive workshops focused on public speaking, conducting interviews, working with information, and teamwork. We learned how to identify credible sources, ask the right questions, and tell authentic stories that reflect real issues and topics in our communities. Among the most interesting activities was a practical field interview, during which we approached local residents of Varna and asked them about the issues that most concern them in their daily lives – from environmental topics to social problems. These interviews taught us how to communicate with people, listen actively, and show empathy and respect.

In addition to the educational component, the project also offered a rich social and cultural program. Each country prepared a cultural evening, during which participants presented their traditions, national dishes, and dances, creating a pleasant and friendly atmosphere. The program also included tours of the city of Varna, relaxation by the Black Sea, as well as various sports and social activities – such as beach volleyball, creative workshops, and social games, which helped us strengthen team spirit and forge new friendships across countries.

At the end of the project, we gained not only valuable knowledge and practical experience in citizen journalism but also improved our communication skills, creativity, and self-confidence. The project showed us how important it is to be informed, think critically, and actively participate in events around us. However, the greatest added value was the unforgettable experiences and friendships we made with young people from different cultures, united by a common desire to contribute to positive changes in society.