Expanding Digital Horizons: YMCA Introduce Gaming Garage Program
Latest News Expanding Digital Horizons: YMCA Introduces Gaming Garage Program In addition to the core HP life digital education program that the YMCA has been implementing for the third year at the Bitola Youth Center, the YMCA has expanded its offering with new digital programs through the Gaming Garage HP platform. These additional courses introduced young people to creative digital industries, including video game development, e-sports, programming, visual design, and digital storytelling. Designed to be understandable even for beginners, these courses combine creativity and technology and offer opportunities for access to modern, global, and fast-growing professions. The four-week hybrid program which was implemented this spring, combined online learning with live meetings at the Youth Center. Participants could individually or in teams learn from the online courses and exchange ideas with their peers. The program additionally included a study visit to a local gaming company where young people could get acquainted with real job positions and industrial processes in creating a game for the gaming market. In addition to these regular educational activities, the YMCA also activated the local community through two special Gaming Garage tournaments organized at the Youth Center. The tournaments were realized in two rounds, in spring and autumn as special events that encouraged young people to get involved, have fun and compete by playing some of the games they had the opportunity to learn about during the educational activities and meetings. The Gaming Garage tournaments were conceived as much more than games – participants had the opportunity to learn about the best free online courses for game design and the use of digital creativity in game creation, showing them that their hobby can grow into a skill or a future employment opportunity. Upon completion, participants receive an official certificate from HP and edX.These initiatives are open to all young people from 15 to 30 years old, regardless of previous experience. Curiosity, a desire to learn and an interest in IT technology are enough. Both programs HP LIFE courses and Gаming Garage are implemented in partnership with HP Inc. and YMCA Europe and are part of the wider HP E-Sports and Video Game Development Academy of HP. Through continuous training, joint events, and access to cutting-edge digital resources, the YMCA continues to motivate young people to learn, create, collaborate, and build the digital skills they will need in the future.
Empowering Students in Mogila Through Non-Formal Education
Latest News Empowering Students in Mogila Through Non-Formal Education As part of our efforts to make youth work accessible in rural areas in October and November 2025 we delivered activities for non-formal education of young people in the Municipality of Mogila. Our team of youth workers held a series of three workshops in the Goce Delchev Primary School in the Municipality of Mogila. The workshops aimed to strengthen the capacities of the student organization in this school so that students themselves can create and implement initiatives that contribute to creating a safer school environment. The workshops were attended by the presidents and deputies of all classes, as well as the school’s children’s ombudsman, students aged 12 to 15. At the beginning, they talked about how they understand communication, what verbal and non-verbal communication means to them and how these elements affect their relationships. They also talked about what constitutes conflict, how they recognize it and where it is right to report it. Then the students practiced decision-making – individually and in groups – and analyzed the factors that influence a group communication to be successful and useful. This was followed by a session with a discussion on how to hold meetings, ways of keeping minutes, how to process agenda items and how to draw conclusions. The students described the meetings they had had so far in the school and compared them with the good practices they had learned. Each class was given a task – in pairs to draft a petition or official request to the Principal, based on a need that their classmates had highlighted as significant. The next workshop was where the children were introduced to the basics of research work. The students learned to choose and use tools for collecting information from larger groups of children, such as surveys, questionnaires and interviews. Each team conducted research in the school, processed the results and presented them at the last workshop. As an additional activity, they drew their “ideal school”, and then compared the idea with the real situation, analyzing what could be improved. This exercise encouraged them to think about a student initiative that would have the greatest significance for their school. In the discussions, most of the students expressed a desire for the initiative to be creative and supportive. Thus was born the idea for “Comics that Change” – the creation of comics by students under the mentorship of Macedonian language and art teachers, with the aim of creating a student comic book – a collection of topics important to the school and the community: student participation, violence prevention and ecology. These will then be printed on paper and will be part of the regular program of the school’s patron saint holiday, which is celebrated every spring and is a significant event in this local community. The overall initiative in this way helps to raise the level of safety, trust and openness between students and professional service and contributes to a better school environment for future generations. In order to promote non-formal education in rural areas, YMCA cooperates with various partners. These activities enter in a broader initiative of the Coalition of Youth Organizations SEGA, in partnership with the Macedonian Center for Civic Education, the First Children’s Embassy in the World Megjashi and SmartUp – Social Innovation Lab, with support from the Pestalozzi Children’s Foundation, which is being implemented in the period September 2023 – August 2026. Thanks to the support of Y’s Men International, we are in a position to implement a series of new workshops in other rural areas as well.
Communication Matters: Training and Knowledge Transfer in Three Schools in Bitola
Latest News Communication Matters: Training and Knowledge Transfer in Three Schools in Bitola Our cooperation with schools is continuous and consistent. In addition to opportunities for educating children, we also offer opportunities for staff education. From 10 to 19 November 2025, representatives from the professional services of three schools in Bitola participated in Erasmus+ Communication Matters, an Erasmus+ training in Brno, Czech Republic, designed for educators, youth workers, and facilitators. The training focused on nonviolent communication, a method developed by Marshall Rosenberg, which aims to help distinguish people’s opinions from their needs and to foster understanding and connection even in situations of disagreement. During the training, participants engaged in theoretical sessions, group activities, interactive exercises, and simulations. They learned how to recognize subtle emotions and understand the needs behind different words and behaviors, how to listen empathetically, communicate clearly, and handle challenges and difficult situations. This process allowed them to see how the choice of words and the manner of communication influence relationships and the atmosphere within the group. Special emphasis was placed on applying these skills in work with young people, developing strategies for constructive conflict resolution, and building trust within the group. In December 2025, the participants shared the knowledge they had gained in three schools in Bitola – Dr. Trifun Panovski Primary School, Elpida Karamandi Primary School, and Goce Delchev Primary School. Students took part in interactive workshops, games, and group activities that allowed them to learn, in a practical way, the basics of empathetic listening, recognizing feelings and needs, and expressing their opinions clearly. The activities created a safe space where young people could practice communication, learn from each other, and explore different perspectives, while also strengthening cooperation within the group. The training and dissemination activities enhanced the participants’ ability to communicate attentively and with understanding, recognize needs, and support young people in creating a more open and safe environment. The application of the acquired skills at the local level confirms YMCA Macedonia’s commitment to building an empathetic, attentive, and supportive space for young people, fostering their development and active participation in the community. This project is co-financed by the European Union. You can view the photos from the training in Brno and the dissemination activities in Bitola in the album below.
Our Youth at the European Leaders Camp in the Netherlands
Latest News Our youth at the European Leaders Camp in the Netherlands Six young people from our YMCA took part in the European Summer Camp Young Leaders (ESYL) – an international training held in Ommen, the Netherlands, organized by YMCA Nederland. This unique event, which has become a beautiful tradition uniting young leaders from all over Europe, gathered participants this year from the Netherlands, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, Portugal, the Czech Republic, N.Macedonia, and other countries. Together, they learned, shared ideas, and built friendships that will shape the camps of tomorrow. Through a four-day program filled with interactive workshops, teamwork, and practical sessions, participants learned about summer camp organization, leadership, communication, teamwork, safety, ethical behavior, and camp traditions. Of course, there were also plenty of games, campfires, and moments full of true camp spirit. Our YMCA has been a long-standing partner of YMCA Netherlands for nearly a decade and has actively participated in this program since 2015, preparing new generations of young people who will lead the summer camps of the future across Europe. Below are reflections from our six participants — their impressions, experiences, and inspirations from ESYL 2025. Nikola Gelov Arriving in Ommen — the little town that will stay engraved in my heart — was simply wonderful! Since our journey was the longest, our group was the last to arrive. We settled into our rooms, and from that moment, what I would call a total connection began! Meeting new people, exchanging thoughts, lots of laughter, games, and friendships, fun, singing, and above all, spreading positive energy! Throughout all five days, I truly felt at home. Each day carried on a new story. As the leader of my group, I was beyond proud of everyone who was part of our team! The fun and connection never ended. But as with all the good things, it had to come to an end. Stefanija Dimitrijovska The experience was spontaneous, filled with laughter, new friendships, and long conversations on all kinds of topics. There were around 40 volunteers and leaders who wanted to deepen their leadership skills and personal approach. That’s exactly what I was learning about there – leadership. More specifically, I learned how to apply different leadership approaches in different situations, and how one type of approach can sometimes work better than another. Jovana Kirjakovska I was thrilled and so grateful for the opportunity. All the activities were amazing, especially on the last day when we had an exercise about communication and communication styles. Everyone chose a color that represented him/her, so we discovered how different and unique we all are. I made new friends and gained new knowledge and experiences that are very applicable in everyday life. I would recommend this experience to all young people, because it is something that will truly help them in their future. Vladimir Gelov What I liked the most was the team spirit and the interactive workshops. The sessions on group dynamics and social safety were great and helped me open up more in a team environment. I learned a lot about the importance of active listening, empathy, and safe communication within a group. I realized how small gestures have a big influence on the sense of belonging and trust in the team. This camp helped me become more aware of my strengths and how I can positively influence others. I gained more confidence in public speaking and collaborating with people of different personalities. I would definitely recommend this program to every young person who wants to grow as an individual and a leader — especially to those interested in teamwork, leading projects, or building positive community relationships. Emilija Ilievska I wanted to gain new skills in leadership, teamwork, and activity organization, but also to connect with people from different countries and cultures. What I liked the most was the practical part – team tasks, simulations, and interactive exercises. The atmosphere was positive, and the exchange of experiences with other participants was truly inspiring. I learned many things, like how to communicate effectively, feel more confident speaking a foreign language, handle conflicts, and stay flexible in different situations. The training helped me become more self-confident in my role as a leader and develop various skills that I can apply both in other projects and in everyday life. Some of the workshops I plan to use in my school’s youth organization. This experience is especially valuable for young people who want to grow as leaders, particularly those who wish to work with youth or in non-formal education. Manuela Spasevska When I heard about this event, I was excited because my previous experience was unforgettable, spontaneous, and wonderful. I had high expectations since the last camp I attended in Denmark was incredibly good. However, this one was great in its own way. I knew that every camp is different and that some experiences happen only once, in a specific place. The beauty of the event lies in that feeling – the daily sessions were full of interaction, communication, and personal growth. Through games and team workshops, we created a six-day family. Besides learning about friendship, empathy and creating a warm atmosphere where everyone feels safe and brave, I also learned about teamwork, creating safe environments, organizing camps for different age groups, communication types and working with children. All these professional and personal skills are things we will carry back and apply in our YMCA work. Photos from this unforgettable experience of our young leaders.
We hosted the West Balkans Initiative 2025
Latest News We hosted the West Balkans Initiative 2025 From September 22 to 25, 2025, YMCA.mk had the honor of hosting this year’s YMCA West Balkans Initiative Coordination Meeting. This event unites the energy, knowledge and vision of leaders from across the region and beyond. The gathering brought together representatives from the YMCAs from Macedonia, Serbia, Kosovo, Greece, Bulgaria, Italy, Albania, as well as representatives from our partners from the YMCAs of Germany and the USA. In addition, it was a special honor and a testament to the importance of this initiative for the development of the YMCA network in the region to have the Secretary Generals from World YMCA, Carlos Sanvee and YMCA Europe, Juan Simoes Iglesias as special guests. Shared Vision and Collaboration The regional meeting focused on strengthening local and national YMCA organizations through: The exchange of good practices in youth work Deepening collaboration among countries in the region Developing a strategic plan through 2030, in alignment with the global #YMCAVision2030 Training and discussions on responsible governance, financial transparency, and sustainable funding of youth programs. These themes lie at the heart of the global YMCA mission—an organization with more than 180 years of history dedicated to the holistic development of young people and the building of stronger communities. Learning, Sharing, Growing Through lectures, workshops, and discussions, participants had the opportunity to learn about contemporary challenges facing young people, to hear inspiring experiences from the USA, Germany, Italy, Greece, and the wider region, and to contribute to the creation of a joint framework for the future development of YMCA in the Western Balkans. Special attention was given to topics such as leadership, camping as a tool for non-formal education, and cultural exchange to build bridges of peace, understanding, and opportunity for youth. Adriana Stanovici and Scott T. Jackson from YMCA of the USA led an inspiring workshop on the magic of camps. Claudia Kuhn from YMCA Germany who consistently supports the Western Balkans Initiative in its growth journey led a session on capacity building, bringing the positive practices from Germany. In addition, we had sessions on the latest positive stories from Greece and Italy. Gratitude and Recognition Behind every successful event stands a dedicated team and volunteers, without whom none of this would be possible. Special thanks go to the YMCA.mk team and volunteers: Emilija, Jovan, Nikola, Antonio, Mila, Manuela, Jovana, Stefanija, and Miki, for their enthusiasm, support, and hospitality. As part of the global YMCA family, our YMCA proudly contributes to building a more peaceful, connected, and stronger Western Balkans with young people at the heart of every change.
Testimonials on ProfilPASS Career Guidance
Latest News Testimonials on ProfilPASS Career Guidance Ana, University Student I have always wanted to discover myself, so filling out questionnaires, as well as solving psychological tests and quizzes for self-awareness, aroused curiosity and interest in me. With Profile Pass career counseling, I was pleasantly surprised by the unique experience I gained and the different approach from other tests I had been exposed to before. It allowed me further get to know myself, to face my virtues and shortcomings to learn how to deal with them. I also discovered what the other categories/types of people are and how they function and now I apply healthy communication with them, depending on their character.This way of self-examination is definitely unique in itself and I feel that it gave me the most accurate and relevant results. I would especially recommend it to those who feel some kind of identity crisis, do not know which career path to choose or feel that they are not happy in their job. It should also be applied to high school students, because they are mature enough to understand and that is when they most need to get to know themselves to know which path to take. 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 Profil Pass. 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 idea for their future professional lives. This activity would be of great benefit to them. Natasha, Youth worker When I first learned about the Profil Pass career counseling, 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.The process encouraged honesty and openness, which allowed me to reflect deeply on my qualities and 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 Profil Pass career counseling to high school students preparing for college or young adults unsure about their career direction. 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 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 the Profil Pass career counseling to young people who want to get to know themselves better, to discover what they are good at and what they want
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.
Summer Reimagined: YMCA Camps Returned with Purpose and Passion
Latest News Summer Reimagined: YMCA Camps Returned with Purpose and Passion The YMCA proudly revived its tradition of youth camps, adapting to the times with vibrant day camps focused on personal growth, teamwork, and outdoor learning. This year’s camps, part of the Young Men’s Leadership Project (YMLP) and Girls Leading Our World (GLOW), offered young people in grades 8-9 of primary school and 1-3 of secondary school a unique opportunity for summer adventure, learning, and friendship. Reigniting the Spirit of Camp: A Summer of Growth, Leadership & Joy The call for participants invited youth to step away from screens and daily routines, to immerse themselves in nature and in an atmosphere dedicated in investment in leadership, communication, environment and personal growth. “Our camps are a safe, fun, and inspiring environment,” the call emphasized, “where young people become more confident, aware, and prepared for life.” To prepare the space for a smooth and engaging camp, volunteers from the YMCA took part in clean-up actions at the yard of the Faculty of Pedagogy as primary venue for camp activities ensuring a welcoming environment for all participants. An informative session was also held to introduce the camps and spark enthusiasm among interested youth and parents. Growing Leaders, One Day at a Time: YMCA’s YMLP & GLOW Camps The YMLP day camp took place on June 20, focusing on exercises designed to foster personal growth. Activities included a drum circle teaching communication and active listening—a metaphor for harmony and cooperation in everyday life and slackline exercises symbolizing balance, trust, and mutual support. Participants also practiced Qi Gong, an ancient Chinese mindfulness and movement practice, enhancing physical and mental well-being. Energizers, social games and moments of relaxation, setting a meaningful tone for the youth’s journey, complemented these engaging activities. From June 26 to 28, the GLOW camp welcomed an enthusiastic group of girls for a three-day immersive experience. The first two days were held in the serene courtyard of the Faculty of Pedagogy, while the final day was spent amidst the stunning natural beauty of Pelister National Park. Each day began with yoga sessions helping participants ground themselves and connect deeply with their bodies and surroundings. The camp’s core philosophy encouraged learning through experience and teamwork: girls practiced listening, communicating and building trust through a variety of hands-on exercises. Daily team challenges prompted campers to collaborate on strategy and problem-solving, reinforcing essential life skills such as resilience, leadership, and community responsibility. Activities like slacklining tested balance, coordination, and courage teaching lessons about facing fears and relying on others that only a camp environment can truly provide. Afternoons shifted focus from physical to reflective activities, including guided inner-expression sessions through drawing and mindfulness practices. These moments allowed participants to slow down and restore personal well-being in a fast-paced world. Water games, a camp favorite, added fun and spontaneity, creating joyful and unforgettable summer memories. A unique highlight was the community simulation exercise, where girls role-played local stakeholders to debate, identify community problems, and propose solutions—empowering them to understand and participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives and neighborhoods. The Heart of the Camp: Volunteers and Teamwork Behind this program stood a dedicated team. The YMCA team worked closely with local volunteers who contributed to the logistics and marketing as well as the Peace Corps volunteers serving across the country who added the flavor and key ingredient of the American style of camps. They helped in the implementation of the program through multiple exercises, games and camp songs as well as serving as counselors, fostering the teamwork. The camp staff was instrumental in delivering high quality, meaningful programming, but also in fostering a supportive and inspiring atmosphere where every young person could thrive. In Gratitude The YMCA extends its deepest gratitude to the local and Peace Corps volunteers for their dedication and passion, which helped us, reignite the flame of camping for our youth and community. We are so happy to have partners such as the YMCA of the USA, Signs of Hope from Germany and our colleagues from the YMCAs in the Balkans with whom we work on the Head Space project making many of the sessions, equipment, and logistics possible and not only for these day camps, but beyond. We love our donors. Thanks to everyone who believed in us, who share our mission and values in investing in the young people and donating on our crowdfunding campaign making the participation of our youth affordable for everyone. Together, we look forward to continuing this journey of growth, learning, and empowerment for many summers to come.
Students’ Stories from the Peer School for Primary Schools
Latest News Students’ Stories from the Peer School for 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.
