A view of the newcomer: Chernihiv Regional Session as the first EYP experience.
A
t the end of summer from 25th till 28th of August in the city of Chernihiv, which is on the very North of Ukraine, I happened to spend four most memorable days of summer side by side with wonderful people. Chernihiv is a place where the Regional Session of EYP-Ukraine took place. “Changing the World – Challenging Youth” – under this slogan in the city with more than 1300 year history 95 young people from 13 countries of Europe gathered to discuss urgent problems of nuclear energy future, youth employment, education and culture, human rights and others. However, I realised the guests of the city were motivated not only by discussing the above mentioned topics. For those who have never participated in EYP events the words like “session”, “assembly”, “delegate”, “committee”, “voting procedure” may not seem to be entertaining. Going from Kyiv to Chernihiv I couldn’t even imagine how false my expectations towards EYP session were – I expected it to be boring and extremely serious, and it turned out to be completely different. All my prejudices disappeared already during the first day of the session. Before the official part of the session we experienced teambuilding, the aim of which was to form efficient group communication. At first sight it may seem hilarious when adult people act as children - run, jump and play foolish games. The great importance of this session stage is that it helps the team to create spirit and to develop confidence and trust in each other. Teambuilding took place on a territory of a children's camp. The atmosphere of this
Author: Valentyn Bondaruk
10
10