Students from across the country participated in the youth forum “Our Voice Matters,” organized as part of the project “Youth of Bulgaria – Opportunities for Creative Development,” implemented by the Association “Youth Guard Squads,” with financial support from the Erasmus+ Program, project № 2024-3-BG01-KA154-YOU-000288013. During the event, discussions were held on opportunities for youth involvement in public life, the development of critical thinking, youth work and volunteering, mental health, youth addictions, as well as new forms of partnership between institutions and youth organizations.
Among the guests at the event were the Deputy Minister of Education and Science, Tanya Mihaylova; the Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Petar Mladenov; the Honorary Consul of Italy in Plovdiv, Giuseppe De Francesco; the Director of the Main Directorate “Fire Safety and Protection of the Population,” Alexander Djartov; the bronze medalist from Rio 2016, Elitsa Yankova-Erski; the winner of “Games of Will” and multiple champion of Serbia, Aleksa Erski; and the chess player Cveta Galunova.
“Education is the key to achieving your dreams and ambitions, but it’s not just about textbooks and lessons — it’s an opportunity to express yourself, actively participate in society, and be true leaders of change. We, at the Ministry of Education, are here to support you, create conditions for development, and listen to your ideas and needs. Your engagement is not only important — it is necessary,” noted Tania Mihaylova.
In his speech, Deputy Minister Mladenov emphasized that sustainable solutions in youth policy are achieved when created in true partnership with young people and the youth sector. Prompted by a question, he introduced the boys and girls to the National Youth Information System.
At the forum, the Director of the General Directorate “Fire Safety and Civil Protection” Aleksandar Djartov joined, discussing the institution’s engagement with young people and the development of firefighting sports in the country. Elitsa and Aleksa Erski, along with Tsveta Galunova, thoroughly commented on the benefits of sports and the challenging transition after the end of a competitive career. The young attendees directed numerous questions to the star guests, motivating the organizers to continue their partnership with the institutions and enhance the exchange of ideas between the youth and authorities.
The event is part of the project “Youth of Bulgaria – Opportunities for Creative Development,” executed by the Association “Youth Guard Units” with financial support from the Erasmus+ Program, project № 2024-3-BG01-KA154-YOU-000288013. The main goal of the initiative is to promote the personal and creative development of young people through innovative approaches, informal education, active teamwork, and inspiring meetings with figures from public, cultural, and sports life.
