Podgorica, March 2 – RYCO Local Branch Office in Montenegro organized an event aimed at promoting the achievements of grantees supported through the Western Balkan Youth Cultural Fund (WBYCF), bringing together institutional representatives, partners, and young cultural practitioners from across Montenegro. The event highlighted the impact of the Fund on empowering youth and strengthening the cultural sector, while also opening space for dialogue on future initiatives.
The opening address was delivered by Dr. Tamara Vujović, Minister of Culture and Media of Montenegro, who underlined the importance of institutional support to the WBYCF. She emphasized that such support should not be reflected solely through financial contributions but also through the creation of a supportive environment that enables young cultural practitioners and NGOs to grow, innovate, and actively contribute to society.
H.E. Peter Felten, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany in Montenegro, stressed the significance of art and culture in affirming and promoting the mission and values of the Regional Youth Cooperation Office. He highlighted the role of cultural initiatives in fostering dialogue, understanding, and cooperation among young people in the Western Balkans.
Darko Stojanović, Director of the Directorate of Youth at the Ministry of Sport and Youth of Montenegro, reaffirmed the successful and impactful partnership between the Ministry and RYCO LBO MNE. He noted that this cooperation continues to benefit hundreds of young people across Montenegro, strengthening youth participation and engagement in cultural and civic life.
Edin Koljenović, Head of RYCO LBO MNE, expressed gratitude to the donors and supporters of RYCO’s mission, emphasizing that continued investment in young cultural practitioners and NGOs operating in the field of culture must remain a priority. He underlined that such investments are essential for building sustainable peace and long-term cooperation throughout the Western Balkan region.
The event concluded with presentations by WBYCF grantees, who shared the results and experiences gained during the implementation of their projects. The discussion that followed provided a constructive platform for identifying the needs of the cultural sector and exploring new initiatives that can further strengthen youth cultural engagement in Montenegro and the region.
