Dr. Olga Donets
In March, the fifth civic workshop “Environmental Protection” took place in the city of Vynohradiv. The event was implemented within the framework of the international project EUPHORIA, in partnership with the “Carpathian Human Rights Agency ‘Vested’” and the “Grassroots Institute”. For our organization, participation in such initiatives is an important part of our ongoing work in the field of environmental education, youth support, civic engagement, and the promotion of responsible attitudes toward the environment.
This workshop was not just an educational event, but a space for dialogue, teamwork, and practical problem-solving. Young participants had the opportunity to look at environmental challenges in their community not in abstract terms, but through their own experience: identifying key local issues, discussing possible solutions, and understanding their own role in driving change. Participants worked in groups, analyzed local environmental problems, explored possible solutions, developed future scenarios, and learned how modern digital tools – particularly artificial intelligence – can be used to design environmental initiatives, campaigns, and community-based solutions. It is especially important that the workshop involved young people from among internally displaced persons (IDPs). For children and adolescents who have experienced displacement, such activities serve not only an educational purpose but also help them integrate into new communities, build social connections, express themselves, and overcome feelings of isolation through collaboration and creativity.
An important part of the workshop was the theatrical performance “AI”, staged under the auspices of the Grassroots Institute by our partners – the Vynohradiv theatre studio “YVS Art.” Through the language of art, participants were encouraged to reflect on the relationship between humans and artificial intelligence, on how to remain connected to one’s identity in a rapidly digitalizing world, and how to preserve a sense of real life, emotions, and responsibility for the future – both of humanity and the environment. This combination of environmental education, modern technologies, and performing arts creates a unique impact. It not only provides knowledge but also fosters emotional engagement, critical thinking, and a sense of personal responsibility. Such formats help young people understand that environmental challenges are not distant or abstract – they are part of everyday life and require active involvement.
We sincerely thank director Viktoriia Yuhas and the entire team of the theatre studio “YVS Art” for their creativity, depth, and dedication in working with young people and children. Their work goes beyond art — it is about support, development, inspiration, and creating a safe space where young people can express themselves and feel valued.
For the Grassroots Institute, this event is a continuation of our programmatic activities aimed at developing environmental education, civic participation, and youth initiatives. We believe that the future is shaped not only through laws and policies, but also through daily work with young people – through education, culture, dialogue, and collective action. We are convinced that it is through the combination of education, technology, and art that a generation is formed – one that is not only able to talk about change, but also to implement it. We thank the youth of Vynohradiv for their openness, energy, and care. We believe that environmental awareness is formed not only through knowledge, but also through emotion, experience, and creativity.
💚 We continue this journey together.
Further contact: mail@tgi.org.ua; ukraine@grassrootsinstitute.net
