The Ukrainian Red Cross Represented at the International Youth Platform — Youth Leadership Academy
Two Ukrainian Red Cross volunteers recently participated in the Youth Leadership Academy, organised by the Danish Red Cross. The Academy brings together young leaders from across the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, creating a powerful global platform for sharing experiences and strengthening the role of young people within the volunteer movement.
The purpose of their participation was to develop leadership skills and acquire new knowledge, ideas, and practical skills that volunteers can apply in their communities and at the national level.
The key objectives of the programme include:
- Exchanging experiences with young people from other National Societies
- Establishing international partnerships
- Sharing effective practices for youth development within the Ukrainian Red Cross
“I expected to gain valuable knowledge and experience that would help me develop the Red Cross branch in my city. I wanted to learn about the challenges faced by young people in different countries, share Ukraine’s experience, and represent my country with dignity. And I can confidently say that all these expectations were met,” said Maria, a Ukrainian Red Cross volunteer.
The academy participants discussed the challenges faced by National Societies in different regions, from the consequences of armed conflicts to food insecurity, mental health issues, and loneliness. These discussions created a space for mutual learning and the exploration of solutions relevant to Ukraine.
One of the core components of the programme was the leadership module. In this module, young leaders explored topics such as the role of the individual within a team, stages of team development, conflict resolution strategies, ways to maintain motivation and psychological resilience, and the development of their own leadership identity.
Upon returning from the Leadership Academy, the volunteers brought back not only new knowledge and tools but also fresh inspiration for advancing the Ukrainian Red Cross. Their participation marks another step towards actively engaging young people in the volunteer movement and nurturing a new generation of leaders capable of driving positive change in their communities and across the country.
