Following the selection process of the 6th “RYCOconnecting” Open Call, RYCO successfully organized regional training in Pristina to strengthen the capacities of selected grantees to implement youth projects and foster collaboration among participants.
Creating chances and providing opportunities for youth empowerment in the Western Balkans region is one of the core missions of the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO). Supporting youth projects implemented by civil society organizations adds further value to this mission, and this time representatives of 13 organizations selected within 6th Open Call had a chance to learn about tools and gain support to truly own their projects, and make a real impact in their communities.
In his opening remarks, RYCO Secretary General, Albert Hani, sent inspiring messages to participants:
“These are not just projects. They are stories of change driven by young people who are building something better across region”
Opening remarks also featured OSCE representative Boško Stankovski and Donika Zogu, Youth Representatives in RYCO’s Governing Board.
Sonila Necaj, RYCO’s Open Call Program Manager, walked participants through the grant structure, providing a detailed explanation on Open Call priorities and strategic planning, providing space for participants to engage in Q&A session with RYCO team.
Throughout the day, grantees took part in hands-on sessions covering from grant compliance and financial planning to communication and impact tracking. Marsela Bakuli, Senior Procurement Officer, walked participants through the essentials of transparent and effective procurement while Sanda Bajramović Communication and Visibility Manager highlighted the importance of project branding, donor acknowledgment, and effective storytelling. Wrapping up the learning sessions, Genta Shabani, Monitoring & Evaluation Officer, offered practical tools for setting goals, tracking progress, and staying flexible in the face of challenges.
The regional training in Prishtina may have ended, but the work continues. Supported by RYCO and connected to one another, these youth-led initiatives are now better equipped, not only with skills and tools, but with a growing network of peers working toward the same vision: a more peaceful, cooperative, and empowered Western Balkans.
