Lasting Impressions – The Festival “Wonderful Days” through the Eyes of our Youth
Latest News Lasting Impressions – The Festival “Wonderful Days” through the Eyes of our Youth In July 2025, eight representatives from our YMCA – two leaders and six young people aged 13 to 18 – took part in the unforgettable youth festival Wonderful Days in Denmark. Organized every two years by YMCA Denmark, this unique camp-festival offers an outdoor adventure filled with concerts, workshops, sports, moments for personal reflection, and countless new friendships. Thanks to the support of the Erasmus+ programme, our participants had the opportunity to join youth from several other countries in this inspiring event. Wonderful Days is more than just a festival – it’s a shared experience that inspires, connects, and empowers young people through non-formal education, volunteering, and joyful engagement. Our team returned home full of ideas, skills, and motivation, ready to bring a piece of the festival spirit into our local community. Below, we share their reflections – honest, vivid, and full of gratitude. MihailMy first thoughts when I found out about the festival in Denmark were that this would be unforgettable. I think we all had certain expectations, but what I expected became a reality – a paradise for young people. I felt accepted and was very happy that everyone was friendly and communicative. The international connection aspect was very pleasant – we shared our cultures and games. I learned to be more communicative and to enjoy nature. The activities we did around the campfire had a positive impact – I learned how to make wooden utensils and various sculptures. Overall, I would describe the experience as unforgettable, extremely fun and unforgettable for anyone who attends in the future. TeonaBecause we do not have such events here, my first thought was that this was something impossible for me. However, with a bit of hope, I still applied. I felt excited with a small dose of fear about whether I would manage, but at that place, nothing is impossible – everyone gives you hope and strength that you can do anything. I gained new experiences because it was my first time camping. I also got to know myself better. After each activity, I felt stronger than I believed I was. Primarily, I learned to live more simply than I do in everyday life. I learned to be more resourceful, to know my worth, and that people care about my opinion. I would recommend this festival to many young people because you can learn things that help in everyday life and personal growth. StefanijaBefore the trip, I expected something modest, but it turned out to be even better, and the place was wonderful, clean and organized. During all the activities, I felt great and accepted by everyone. Taking part in this festival brought me many benefits – I gained new skills, improved communication and discipline. Before, I used to hesitate to join new activities. Now I’m more open to challenges and have made new friendships, which also means a lot. I would definitely recommend this type of educational activity. You learn how to work in a team, gain knowledge, and develop discipline – which is very important. The activity was excellently organized and left a great impression – I want to tell everyone with such an opportunity to go for it. EmilijaFrom the moment I found out about the festival, I was thrilled and excited for the adventure because I hadn’t had such an experience before. At the festival, I learned about teamwork, how to become more responsible and developed other skills like creativity and resilience in the face of challenges. I learned things I will use in everyday life, like flexibility, problem-solving, and finding creative solutions. I also learned how to make the most of the day and feel fulfilled. My recommendation: I don’t think I’ll stop telling everyone about this for the next six months, because it was such an unforgettable and super fun experience. I recommend everyone to go if they get the chance – no one teaches you the things you learn at camp: friendship, skills, experience, and memories. Overall experience: I would describe it in one word – unbelievable. JovanaHonestly, I didn’t think I’d be lucky enough to be part of such an adventure and had no expectations. But when I found out I would participate, I knew I’d have a great time, meet new friends, and learn something new. The activities I liked most were those we could do in our free time – like weaving, sewing, working with clay, and making bracelets. Participating in such an organized camp festival meant you truly have a chance to learn many new things, find yourself in a different environment, and meet different people. The things you learn at these camps are applicable and useful in everyday life. I recommend these camp activities, friendships, memories, and experiences to every young person because they begin to become more aware, confident, make new friendships and become stronger. ManuelaI couldn’t fully imagine what a camp festival would be like because it was my first time participating in something like that. The fact that I already knew everyone in my group meant that my only expectation was to have fun! Each game was new to us and designed to be engaging. I enjoyed every single activity offered to us – even just having a simple conversation with one of the internationals. All of it was an opportunity to grow within myself. In the 21st century, everyone thinks they need to look perfect, act perfectly, have no flaws, be the best, compete with each other and focus most on their social media. However, at camp we remember the real standards – what really matters. Kindness, friendship, humanity, loyalty and LOVE! We believe that moments like these at Wonderful Days leave a lasting impact and encourage young people to be more active, confident, and open to the world around them. Gordana – a group leaderWhen I first heard about the summer camp in Denmark, I felt excitement and
More Than a Camp: Stories That Stay With You
Latest News More Than a Camp: Stories That Stay With You Campers’ Testimonials This summer, a group of girls from different schools and backgrounds came together at GLOW Camp — and left with more than just great memories. What started as a fun summer opportunity quickly turned into a life-changing experience, full of personal growth, new friendships, laughter, and learning that reached far beyond the campgrounds. Mihaela, a 15-year-old medical student, the camp became a place to build self-confidence and learn how to better communicate with others. “Everything we learned is something we can use in everyday life — and the friendships still remain.” Ema, 14, arrived nervous but hopeful — and left with a full heart. She described the camp as fun, educational, and deeply empowering. “I learned to speak in front of others without being shy,” she said. “I got better at working in a team, made friends, and became more confident.” Ana Marija, also 15, felt that these activities should be experienced by all teenagers — even adults. The camp taught her practical and emotional lessons that, as she said, “changed my daily life.” She believes this kind of camp is especially important for younger generations to disconnect from their phones and connect more with people. Emilija, 16, called her GLOW experience “amazing.” She found not just joy in the moment, but tools for life — learning the value of resilience, leadership, and how true strength lies in unity and support. “No one teaches you these things the way camp does,” she said. “The friendships, the skills, the memories — they stay with you.” Angela, 14, embraced every activity — from setting up a tent for the first time to learning how to express herself with more confidence. “Since camp, I’ve started taking better care of myself and speaking up more,” she shared. “It helped me open up and work as a team.” And for Jana, 15, the magic was in the energy. “It was fun, educational, and helped me be more open,” she said. She especially enjoyed the water games, teamwork, and the feeling of learning through playing. These girls came to GLOW Camp looking for something new. They left with new skills, new friendships, and a stronger sense of who they are — and who they can become. Staff Testimonials “I really appreciate being part of the first time bringing back to the camp. It is only up from here. Thank you so much!” — Lizzie Bradshaw, Peace Corps Volunteer “Particularly with GLOW camp, there was enthusiasm and excitement to participate. It was clear that meaningful bonds were established. The counselors worked really well together, and there are clear opportunities to grow the program next year!” — Shayna Meltzer, Peace Corps Volunteer “This was a challenge for me, because it was the first time I was directly involved in planning outdoor camps, working with a team from the USA who have rich and real-world experience behind them. Of course, there is always room for improvement, and I look forward to more such or similar activities in the future.” — Natasa Darkov, YMCA staff “The girls had an amazing time, which is the main goal. I’m really happy the camps are happening again, and I cannot wait to see how I can contribute to getting them back to their former glory! Godspeed!” — Roberta Petrovska, Local Volunteer Campers’ Survey After participating in the camp, many girls feel significantly more confident in their decision-making abilities (72% high level of agreement) and committed to fulfilling their obligations (67%). Most participants stated that they are more aware and proactive in taking care of their physical and emotional health (78%), as well as having a significant increase in self-confidence, security, and independence (67%). Many of them feel more effective in teamwork (78%), their ability to cooperate with others has improved (78%), and they are also more willing to put the goals of the group before their own (72%). Also, 72% value and consider different opinions more and understand group dynamics better. Participants showed an increased interest in exploring new experiences (89%), and a great willingness to get out of their comfort zone and try new things (85%). They feel more confident when meeting and interacting with new people (79%) and more effective in working in a group (85%). Parents’ Survey To better understand the impact of this year’s GLOW Camp, we asked the parents of participants to share their impressions. Their responses showed not only strong satisfaction with the experience but also visible changes in their daughters after the camp. All parents agreed that the camp was useful for their daughters — a clear sign that GLOW continues to offer meaningful content and a supportive environment. When it came to the overall camp experience, a big majority of parents rated it as excellent, with the remaining saying it was above average or average. The activities also received high praise with most of them describing them as excellent and a few as very good. One of the most encouraging results came from the question about changes in the children after the camp. Most parents said they saw a positive difference — their daughters came home happier, more confident, more creative, and more socially engaged. A few noted they were smiling more, initiating conversations, or expressing themselves in new ways, and a few were not sure yet or saw no noticeable change. Most parents felt the camp met their expectations and when asked how GLOW compared to other camps in the country, half said it was among the best, while others did not have a comparison point. Parents described GLOW as a safe space where girls could express themselves, try new things, and grow – emotionally, socially, and creatively. Many expressed gratitude that such a program exists and hope to see it continue in the years to come.
Students’ Stories from Peer Education in Primary Schools
Latest News Students’ Stories from Peer Education in Primary Schools Jovana Georgievska, School Dr. Trifun Panovski From all the topics, “How to deal with peer violence” was my favorite topic to present because we taught the children how to stand up for themselves and to create their self-confidence. In the future, I would like to be a peer educator again because I think this is an important topic that needs to be discussed not only in class, because we see it every day but many do nothing to stop it. Furkan Metliku, School Goce Delchev With the help of the educators and the workshops, I became more confident and prepared to speak in front of others. The topic that interested me the most was psychological violence, because it often happens and is difficult to recognize. During the presentations in front of the students, I was glad that the students listened carefully and showed interest. I believe they learned something important. I would like to be a peer educator again, because this experience helped me to express myself better, to gain self-confidence, and to be a support for others. Mert Rustemov, School Dame Gruev To be a peer educator for the prevention of violence was a great responsibility for me, but also an opportunity to learn something new and to help others. Through the workshops and trainings, I gained self-confidence and felt prepared to speak in front of other students. I consider the topic of peer violence to be very important, because each of us has the right to be safe and respected at school. What was most interesting to me was that through games and discussions, we learned how to recognize different types of violence and how to react properly. I felt most excited when I had to speak in front of other students, but over time I realized that there is no place for shame and fear – it is important to speak openly. I believe that such activities are extremely important and I would like to be a peer educator again. The feeling that I can make a change, even a small one, gives me the strength to continue. Jovan Grozdanovski, School Kole Kaninski When I heard about this workshop, I was nervous about meeting new children, but with each new workshop, I relaxed more and more. Before presenting at my school as a peer educator, I was afraid, but during the presentation, I relaxed. Something that helped me relax was the children who participated in the workshop, because they were open and shared their own experiences with peer violence and how they dealt with it. Jana Lozanche, School St.Cyril and Methodius The workshops helped us to connect with each other, to build team trust, and to feel safe when speaking in front of other students. The most interesting part for me was when the students shared experiences about violence they had survived or witnessed. That was the moment when I truly felt how serious and important this topic is. In those moments, I learned that every child hides a story behind their behavior and that we need to be there for each other. The most difficult part for me was the preparation for the presentation. Although we were prepared and had support, I still felt nervous and wondered if I would say everything as I should. But when I saw that the children were really listening, I felt that we were truly doing something good. I would like to be part of such activities again, even to be a peer educator again.
Peer School Against Peer Violence: Testimonies from Participants
Latest News Peer School Against Peer Violence: Testimonies from Participants Mihaela During the training on peer violence, I had the opportunity to give a presentation in front of 40 students and two psychologists at my school. It was a huge experience for me, but at the same time a big challenge. What scared me the most was whether I would be able to keep everyone’s attention, especially when I knew that not only first and second-year students would be listening to me, but professionals as well. The nervousness and fear of making mistakes were constantly present, because it was important to me that my message was clear and well understood. When the presentation was over, I felt relieved, happy and relaxed. Although I was afraid, I managed to overcome my fear and convey the topic with dedication. It was wonderful to see how my words affected the students, and to hear positive feedback from all of them. It gave me additional motivation and confidence. I would definitely present again. Every new experience of this type helps me improve and feel more confident in myself, both now and in the future. I see it as a chance to grow and pass on my knowledge to others. When it comes to working with elementary school students, I would gladly accept. I believe that working with younger students is extremely important, because they are in a period when they learn the most and form themselves as individuals. I would like to help them learn how to deal with violence and create positive relationships with the people around them. Through this experience, I realized even more that I find myself in psychology that I want to develop in the future. I want to continue working with young people, to inspire them and to help them deal with the challenges that life brings. Predrag I am Predrag, I am 15 years old and study at a technical secondary school. I was giving a presentation in front of about twenty youths, and we were learning about fighting peer violence. From the presentation I learned a lot about myself, but also about others. I have learned that people who commit violence also have problems, not just those who receive it. Ognen I am Ognen, a student at the technical school in Bitola and I was a peer educator at the School Against Peer Bullying. Before delivering my presentation, I was afraid that I could get confused very easily and not be understood or interested by the audience, but that immediately changed as soon as I started presenting. Since the presentation ended, I felt nice, relieved and fulfilled that I was able to contribute to raising awareness about the peer violence that occurs in today’s society. I would definitely like to present again, both in front of my peers and in front of elementary school students on this topic, because the topic is of great importance to everyone. Nektaria I am Nektaria, a second-year student at the SABA high school. Before coming to this workshop I was afraid of presenting in front of many people, in front of youth, as well as meeting new ones, but as time went on, with each new workshop we got to know the youth better. When we had to present as peer educators in our schools, things changed and I was very relaxed. During the workshops, I am glad that many students got relaxed and started sharing their experiences, whether they were bullies or victims of violence. I hope that in the future more will join such workshops so that we can positively affect and reduce violence. Teodora I am Teodora, I am studying in medical high school, and I am 16 years old. I think this presentation was very useful and I learned so many new things. I know that this presentation will benefit me in the future, and I know that those who listened to me will learn something more about what peer violence is actually. I had no stage fright at all about the presentation and no one should have stage fright. It’s not scary and if you’re educated about what you’re talking about and then it’s easy to express it to all those who want to listen to you. More about this program you can read here: Peer School Against Peer Violence – YMCA.mk
YMCA World Accelerator Summit: Vision 2030 in Mombasa, Kenya
From 21st to 26th October 2024, I had the incredible privilege of attending the YMCA World Accelerator Summit in Mombasa, Kenya.
Participants’ Voices: Testimonials from the YMCA+HP Digital Education Program for 2024
Latest News Participants’ Voices: Testimonials from the YMCA+HP Digital Education Program for 2024 AndreaAs one of the most regular visitors to the Youth Center, who regularly attends various events and workshops, I also learned about the HP LIFE courses. These are digital literacy courses run by Natasha from the YMCA. I learned a lot of new things that I should normally learn at school, but unfortunately, they aren’t part of our education system. After taking a few courses, I decided to recommend them to my classmates because I believe everyone should be educated on basic things. After all, we live in a time where almost everything is digital. I must also mention that every time I attend any HP LIFE course, I gain knowledge, confidence, and make new acquaintances. My favorite category is communications. LukaI am satisfied with these courses because we are living in a modern age where everyone needs to have an understanding of technology, online business, and many other things. I am very grateful to the YMCA for offering the HP courses because they are very useful for young people. I have been taking these courses for a while now, and I can say that I like and use them a lot. I also want to praise Natasha Darkov, who is our educator and is always ready to explain any part of the course that is unclear to us. I am sharing this course with my friends and classmates because it is beneficial, and I hope they will like it because it is very relevant today. In the future, I plan to study all the courses, but I would single out the marketing topic as the most useful. MarkoI am 17 years old and I was introduced to the HP courses at the youth center where I regularly volunteer. I am thrilled I started attending these courses because I learned about different aspects of the IT world. This way of getting some new skills through such courses should be applied in education because when I can get this much knowledge, everyone else should and deserves to get it. The courses can help a lot and I would share them with more of my friends. DavidI’m David, a student in my second year at SABA high school, majoring in business. My school always shows interest in non-formal education and that is why for the second year we partnered with the YMCA for the digital education courses the YMCA offers supported by HP Life. I attend these courses with many of my classmates to enrich my knowledge of digital marketing. I know that the future lies in digital education, so I study all the courses with great dedication. I would recommend all young people to take advantage of this free opportunity and I know that if they come at least once, the YMCA Digital Hub will become one of their favorite places in our city. LinaI am Lina, a second year of studying business at SABA high school and I have also been attending HP courses for the second year, provided by the YMCA in our city. I found out about these courses through our school, which is always willing to suggest and provide us with additional knowledge so that we can improve ourselves more for our future. The topic of digital marketing is my favorite, but of course, I also enjoy the new courses on the topic of Digital Business Skills, which are much related to my current education. In the future, I would like to study business-related studies, and I know that the knowledge gained about digital marketing will be of great importance to me. I recommend it to all my classmates and friends, this is a great opportunity for us and it would be a great shame if you do not take advantage of it. Read more about this program here.
Testimonials on ProfilPASS Career Guidance
Latest News Testimonials on ProfilPASS Career Guidance Angela, High School Student While participating in the process I felt free to share what I wanted to express about myself, and I was assured that through this method I would receive a direction that suited me, and at the same time I could learn something new about myself. Since I had one-on-one sessions, I felt free and with no stress. The most enjoyable part of the activity was the privacy I had while participating. I learned about myself that I am an altruistic person who has great analytical and engineering skills, and through the meetings, I received direction on how to build myself as a person further. Since I did not have a specific idea of what to do next when I started my career life, the activity especially helped me to be able to explore and decide, what jobs would suit me according to my experiences and abilities. I believe that I could not have done this on my own with equal efficiency if I had not participated in this activity. I also received guidance on what jobs to research based on my experiences, skills and interests and on how to enrich my CV, things which will be applied throughout my life. In the past, I had a lot of stress because I believed that there were no secure career paths for me and I was not sure if I would ever be employed in the future. Through this activity, I learned that there is and everyone has a secure career path and I can find my path. This was so helpful for me and I believe that it would be also of great help to those around me. I think that this methodology would benefit the youngest people in secondary education who are still not sure what to do next after secondary education, for example, which university to go to when they become adults. I think there are so many young people unsure of themselves and with no ideas for their future professional lives and this activity would be of great benefit to them. Natasha, Youth Worker When I first learned about the ProfilPASS methodology I was curious, but not overly optimistic. It reminded me of past experiences in high school when we worked with psychologists to discuss our future educational paths. My expectations were modest, yet I decided to give it a chance. I realized that even though I had been working for nearly a decade, engaging in self-reflection and understanding my personal and professional affinities could still be valuable. Participating in this activity felt empowering and enlightening. The process encouraged honesty and openness, which allowed me to reflect deeply on my qualities and past experiences. There were moments when I needed extra time to recall certain details, but that only made the process more meaningful. Despite my years of experience as a youth worker, volunteer, and coordinator, I discovered new insights about myself. This activity helped me reaffirm my strengths, recognize areas for growth, and feel more confident in my career path. Overall, I found this experience incredibly beneficial. It not only enhanced my self-awareness but also gave me practical tools, like a detailed document summarizing my results, which I can use for personal and professional development. I would highly recommend the ProfilPASS methodology to high school students preparing for college or young adults unsure about their career direction. The one-on-one format with a skilled psychologist added a personal touch that made the process even more impactful. Andrea, High School Student At first, I didn’t had any big expectations, but I felt like I really needed this activity. This activity not only made me get to know myself, but it also allowed me to realize all my abilities, skills and traits, my character. Which really helped me further, both in personal and professional growth. For example, after this activity I gradually noticed how much easier it was for me to form new collaborations, and acquaintances, and approach new experiences. I recommend this activity to everyone, but especially to young people who don’t know each other well enough, and I believe that it will help them as it helped me. Luka, High School Student In a way, I learned more about myself and it was interesting, but I liked the part when I consulted with the psychologist Jove about my life the most, because I was open and honest, also about my interests for the future, as an important part for every young person. I cannot confirm about professional growth, because I am still young, but I know that it will certainly be useful for me. They apply to everyday life, such as raising self-confidence in young people, and therefore conversations with a psychologist on these topics are very useful to start from a young age. I recommend this activity and methodology to young people who want to get to know themselves better, to discover what they are good at and what they want to work and do in the future. Overall, this was a very interesting and useful experience. I would also like to thank the YMCA for this activity, to continue offering such free opportunities for the local youth.
Play4Peace Camp in Kosovo
Latest News Play4Peace Camp in Kosovo From July 1 to 6 a team of 8 people from our YMCA attended a Play4Peace youth project in Peja, Kosovo along with 20 other young people and youth workers from Serbia, Kosovo and Italy united for peace-building through sports. This project included a 5-day program where through various sports activities and workshops, participants gained a deep understanding of the critical role of youth in peace-building and reconciliation efforts. Play4Peace was an interactive event with discussions, home groups, personal reflections, activities and games that can be applied in any organization. In addition to the educational activities, the participants had an opportunity to visit 3 cities, where they were divided into teams involved in numerous team-building activities such as Escape Room, Photo Challenge, and intercultural evening. In addition, are a few testimonies of some of our participants: FilipI have only a positive opinion about the project. The expectations I had were high, so I’m glad that after all that, they were met. While I was there, I learned a lot about what peace is as a concept, and how to convey it in my environment. I am truly grateful for the chance to participate. AndreaAs for the first time on a project, I had a lot of fun. I learned many things and games and met many new people. And I am especially happy that I got closer and better acquainted with everyone from my group, and that I had some unpleasant moments, but at the same time funny situations that made my experience even more beautiful. TeodoraIn the past week, the YMCA provided us with a project and fellowship that we as participants did not expect. This project for me was a great challenge and study of myself and the people who were around me. The activities that were assigned to us during the sessions, left a lasting impression that I believe we will apply in our everyday lives in the future. Meeting new cultures, and friends, their open-mindedness and honesty left a strong impression on me. “Play4Peace” is a project that made us open up emotionally to new things, to know how to respect each other and what friendship means. There are no wrong answers, there is only the study of new challenges and adventures that await each individual. I highly recommend all those who are keen on learning new things to become a part of the YMCA youth team. DimitriјI have only positive impressions about the project in Kosovo. My expectations were exceeded. The project allowed us to meet and work together with young people from Kosovo, Serbia, and Italy. Together we discussed topics about peace and through sports activities. LoraThe project in Kosovo in which I participated left a great impression on me as I was delighted by their hospitality, their professional approach to the given obligation, the way of realizing the project, as well as conveying the main message to each of the participants. The activities that were implemented should be applied in everyday life because they have a positive impact on each one of us in gaining new knowledge about other cultures, their history and forming new friendships that I believe will be lasting, learning what peace is and how to play for peace. If you get a chance to participate in such a project, sign up without thinking and prepare for an unforgettable experience that will be permanently engraved in your hearts and memories. LukаI have very good impressions of my first youth exchange, and I can say that it exceeded my expectations. When I first heard about this exchange I wanted to go to experience something new in a new country go to a new place and meet new friends. While participating I was very happy because the project was related to sports. I am very grateful to the YMCA for the idea of getting to know the youth from Kosovo, Serbia, and Italy through sports, teamwork, through joint participation. I met many good friends from other countries with whom I still communicate, from whom I learned a lot about their countries, their culture, their religion, etc. I recommend the activities to anyone because they are related to a healthy life and can contribute to improving ourselves mentally. Younger individuals will benefit the most because they are developing and need a good example of how to grow, and develop, just have confidence, not be afraid to express themselves, and know that you can find friends from another country. Photos from this Activity in this gallery.
Voices of Change: Testimonials from the Participants of the Peer School for Mental Health
Latest News Voices of Change: Testimonials from the Participants of the Peer School for Mental Health Nata Marija Seshic – Elementary School, Gjorgi SugarevI am Nata Marija, and I was part of the Peer School for Mental Health of Children and Youth. Through communication and socializing, I learned how to deal with anxiety and panic attacks, as well as how to stay calm when giving a speech in front of an audience. In addition to learning new skills, I met and made new acquaintances and friendships. That’s why I highly recommend being part of the activities at YMCA Bitola. Andrea Grozdanovska – High School Student, Taki DaskaloWhen I heard about this training, the first thing I did was sign up without hesitation, and I couldn’t wait to start the meetings. This training was something new and a step ahead of just talking about how important mental health is. It was the first training that worked with young people to help them understand its importance, pass it on to their peers, and gradually break down stereotypes. It encouraged personal growth and development, working on self-confidence, building healthy relationships, etc. For me, this school was very interesting because at every meeting there was a different atmosphere—positive, fun, but at the same time calm. We often gathered in a circle and shared various experiences, where we felt heard and accepted as we were. During the few months that the school lasted, I slowly changed some of my thoughts and attitudes, realizing more about myself and how to keep my mental health in good shape. I gained good socialization, made many new acquaintances, and got rid of the fear of public speaking. Furkan Metliku – Elementary School, Goce DelchevI had a very good time at this school. I learned something at each training session and realized what I needed to change about myself. From all the trainings held, I shared what I learned with my close friends. Emilia Ilievska – High School Student, Jane SandanskiI had a great time during the mental health training. I learned many things, especially how to express my negative feelings such as irritability and outbursts. Also, through these trainings, I gained more confidence in speaking to others, especially when presenting in front of a crowd. I believe this training has helped me a lot in my daily life, and I recommend everyone attend at least one such training because it will help them a lot. Sara Petrovska – Student, Music AcademyThanks to the Mental Health Peer School, I became a peer educator. I managed to give a lecture on resilience to about ninety pupils and students. Our preparation for this lasted 12 teaching hours, during which we worked on several topics that contained both theoretical and practical parts. We studied and worked with the help of psychologists, for which I am very grateful. Today, I know much more, I have improved myself, and the knowledge will serve me in everyday life. I believe we should have more workshops of this type and speak out in order to help, educate, and grow healthily—as we have now. Jovana Talevska – High School Student, Dr. Jovan KalauziThis was the perfect opportunity to first learn to identify my own emotions, then learn techniques and methods that will help me make the most of them, and finally be able to apply all of that to help and support my peers. Sara Gjorgjievska – Elementary School, Goce DelchevI am so happy that I had the chance to be part of this project and become a mental health peer educator myself. The friendships, experiences, and knowledge I gained will stay with me forever, and I am very grateful for that. I hope that in the future, I will again have the chance to further develop in the field of mental health and peer education. Viktorija Jovanovska- International Slavic University, Faculty of Psychology The Peer Educator School, organized by AMOS, YMCA, and Poraka Nova, took place at the Youth Center in Bitola. Initially, I heard about the school from acquaintances, but I wasn’t exactly sure what it was about. A few days later, my dear professor, Sašo Kočankovski, sent me more information about the event, and then I knew it was something that would be really useful to me and definitely worth participating in. The things we are learning in the school are applicable and well-explained, so anyone from any field can understand them, use them for their own benefit, and then share them with their close ones and peers in a simple and understandable way. I would recommend to all young people to participate in such events more often in order to exchange opinions, meet new people, and discover different perspectives. This would contribute to their personal growth and development, and then to the development of the community. Read more about the event: Peer School Against Peer Violence – YMCA.mk
Participants’ Impressions from the mental health support groups
Latest News Participants’ Impressions from the mental health support groups Biljana StefanovskaAs a participant in the support group for parents of children with disabilities at the beginning we talked about the problems we face in our daily lives, something that was a familiar story to all of us, but over time it turned into mutual support and we started to we help each other, together fighting the barriers of the system in which we live. Seeing the group made up only of mothers of children with disabilities who are fighting for the welfare of the children my desire in the future together with the help of other participants and collaborators to encourage the fathers of these children to participate in such support groups is with the aim together to overcome the barriers and stereotypes surrounding the adaptation and acceptance of our children in the place where we live and to feel that this struggle is shared. Biljana StojanovskaAt the very beginning of the support groups, I had one thought going through my head, and that was that these would be like any other project we have been involved in, for the sake of order to go through the process or to have some background. However, over time I was very positively surprised by how we were accepted, allowing us to share our problems, and for which we received specific directions to find the root of that problem if we could, or to learn to solve it with appropriate techniques, master or reduce the difficulty of our problem. The group, the members, the collaborators made us feel special as individuals, and not only as parents of children with special needs. In the future, I would like to involve the whole family in this project, i.e. the fathers, as well as the brothers and sisters of the children with special needs, and together we can overcome the problems that occupy us every day. Jasmina GelevskaThis year, for the first time, I joined a support group for parents who have children with disabilities. It was a wonderful experience from which we became more positive people, we received a lot of support, advice, and courage and realized that we are worth more and worth fighting for. All participants have become like one family and our association will continue in the future. We have created a strong bond with the help of the professionals and we are grateful to them for that. I invite all people who are facing this kind of problem not to hesitate and get involved in such groups because together it is easier and we can do anything. My motto: We have no choice to choose, we must fight for ourselves and our loved ones. Bojana ArtinovskaI didn’t know what to expect, it’s my first experience with psychologists. I just knew I had to face my truth. Fortunately, I quickly gained confidence and felt safe in the group. I was able to face more fears and learned to share and at the same time be there for other members of the group ie. to listen. I learned a lot about mental health through theoretical lectures, but the experiential Gestalt exercises helped me to find answers very quickly and opened the possibility for further work with myself. The biggest benefit I think is that I learned to consciously approach problems, knowing that there is a solution, I just have to look at it from a different perspective. Recognizing a problem helps me personally, but also the feeling of support and compassion in me is now more pronounced when I see it in another. I encourage anyone who finds himself or herself in this predicament to join if they can. I think accepting help is one of the hardest things we all have to learn. This was a wonderful experience for me and I am infinitely grateful.
