In the Fair of creativity and youth, the RYCO Local Branch Office in Kosovo* proudly showcased its commitment to fostering peace and cooperation with the slogan, “Peaceful Vibes Only. Are You with Us?” during its active participation in the Youth Fair. This event was organized by the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports with the support of UNICEF Kosovo Programme in Pristina on the 25th of August.
The Youth Fair served as a stage where young, talented individuals came together to exhibit a diverse spectrum of crafts and arts. These young people showcased their talents in different types of craft and arts, such as artifacts, paintings, robotics, telescopes, architecture, literature, jewelry, and filigree, as well as a performance by the fantastic musicians of the Jazz Band of the University of Pristina.
Beyond the individual showcases, the fair also welcomed the active participation of organizations that were dedicated to empowering youth. The RYCO Local Branch Office in Pristina seized this golden opportunity to underscore its vital mission, ongoing activities, and the plethora of opportunities it offers to young people. A particular spotlight was placed on promoting the recent Strategic Plan for 2023-2026, the Berlin Declaration of the Western Balkans Youth Forum 2023, the Superschool project, the inspiring Peace Broadcasters initiative, and the thought-provoking RYCO Youth Talks.
Additionally, our participation provided a platform for Dhurata Sefa, a participant of the MIRAI program in 2022, to graciously answer questions about the forthcoming Open call for MIRAI participants in 2023, both in the online and offline set.
Notably, the RYCO Local Branch Office in Kosovo, in collaboration with Harmony Heroes, organized an engaging quiz that delved into regional knowledge. Participants were tested on their knowledge of RYCO as an organization, the rich culture, and the history of the region. Those who demonstrated their knowledge were rewarded with RYCO promotional materials, further instilling a sense of pride and connection among the participants.
Participating in the Youth Fair was of utmost importance as it provided a dynamic platform to raise awareness about RYCO’s role in fostering peace, cooperation, and cultural understanding among the youth in Kosovo and the wider Western Balkans region. By actively engaging with the community and promoting its various programs and initiatives, the RYCO Local Branch Office reinforced its commitment to nurturing a new generation of peacemakers and ambassadors of unity in the region. The fair also underscored RYCO’s dedication to facilitating cross-cultural exchanges and collaborations, contributing significantly to the region’s socio-economic development and stability.
In sum, the participation in the Youth Fair was a resounding testament to RYCO’s dedication to building a brighter and harmonious future for the youth in Kosovo and the entire Western Balkans region.
*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.