About the 'Action Ideas' Project
As part of the Urban Movement 'Cities Have Me' educational initiative, a set of 100 motivational game cards titled 'Action Ideas' was developed. These cards transform the teachings of Ukrainian-Canadian economist Bohdan Hawrylyshyn into accessible guidance for teenagers across Ukraine. The project aims to nurture young people’s sense of civic responsibility and empower them to actively contribute to the growth and improvement of their local communities.
Project Implementation
This initiative was carried out during the sixth phase of a non-formal education program for teenagers. Miroslava Yaroshenko, the coordinator of the educational direction within the Urban Movement 'Cities Have Me,' adapted Bohdan Hawrylyshyn’s concepts into the card format. The cards are currently used in Urban Movement hubs located in several Ukrainian locations, including:
- Myrhorod
- Luka-Meleshkivska village
- Malyn
The Bohdan Hawrylyshyn Family Foundation provides both financial backing and methodological support for the project. These cards are accessible within the Urban Movement ecosystem to mentors, program participants, and project partners. They create a supportive environment for reflection, discussion, and idea generation among youth groups. The initiative focuses on shaping responsible and aware young citizens who are ready to play an active role in Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts.
Miroslava Yaroshenko commented, “Our goal is to help teenagers recognize their own agency and potential, which they primarily discover through examples of Ukrainian activists. In the context of the ongoing war, this helps combat feelings of powerlessness and anxiety, fostering a generation eager to engage in Ukraine’s recovery.”
The cards encourage teens to understand the significant impact they can have within their communities, emphasizing that community development is a shared responsibility extending beyond official authorities to every resident. Yaroshenko also noted that young people appreciate the playful and relaxed format, which allows them to express their thoughts freely and choose new ideas to explore. The cards introduce fresh topics that might otherwise go unnoticed in daily life.
The 'Action Ideas' project highlights the importance of engaging youth in active civic participation, especially amid the current challenges Ukraine faces. The tools provided through the cards represent a crucial step toward cultivating a new generation of conscious citizens who can generate innovative ideas and influence the progress of their communities. Involving teens in such initiatives lays a vital foundation for their continued active involvement in the country’s social development.
In addition to empowering youth through innovative projects like the 'Action Ideas' cards, educational initiatives are crucial for fostering essential skills during challenging times. For example, fourth graders at Kyiv Lyceum No. 179 have been developing time management skills amid air raid alerts, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of young Ukrainians in the face of adversity. Such programs not only enhance personal growth but also contribute to the overall development of responsible citizens.