MONTENEGRO/SERBIA – Supported by RYCO and the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund through the second RYCO Open Call for Project Proposals, Vocational School for Trade, Tourism and Catering “Sergije Stanić” in Montenegro, together with Kulturno-umjetničko društvo “Željezničar” in Montenegro and JU Ekonomska srednja škola “Bosa Milićević” in Serbia, implemented the project “A Step Forward”, which took place from December 2019 to November 2020.
The project brought together young participants from Montenegro and Serbia to develop their competencies and skills on intercultural learning and dialogue. Youth learned about the diversity of their cultures and traditions, while attending workshops on traditional cuisine, dances and costumes. In addition, they also discussed the importance of language as a tool for connecting people and exploring new cultures.
“A Step Forward” project contributed not only to youth cooperation and intercultural learning, but also to making new friendships. During the first activities that were held in January and February, the participants got the chance to meet and organize study visits in Podgorica where they learned about the traditional dances and cuisine of Montenegro.
Due to the developments of the COVID-19 pandemic, the project activities shifted to the online space where online city tours, activities and workshops were organized to keep the youth active and connected.
“This project allowed me to gain new friendships, socialize and meet new traditions and cultures. I’m thankful to RYCO and my school “Sergije Stanić” for this opportunity,” Ms Marija Radonić, student and project participant, stated.
Besides helping youth develop their intercultural skills and competencies, A Step Forward project helped them create new friendships while they enjoyed exploring new traditions through cooking and dancing together.
All photos featured in this article were taken throughout the activities held prior to COVID-19 developments.