Twelve teenagers from orphanages in the Ternopil region, participants of the program “On the Threshold of Independent Life,” have completed a series of trainings focused on developing project-based thinking.

Throughout February–March 2026, the teenagers not only learned how to create their own projects but also developed important independence skills, including how to:

• work in a team,

• take responsibility,

• plan actions,

• present ideas, and

• find solutions to problems in their institutions and communities.

During the final session, teams of boys and girls presented the projects they had developed: “The Third Space” and “United by Sport.” However, one team decided not to implement their project due to fear of the challenges involved.

The winning team received a certificate worth 45,000 UAH to implement their idea in their institutions and communities in the near future. Thanks to funds of Eugien Hlyva Fund.

We sincerely thank the trainer Oleksandr Kykta and his assistant Liza Zaiarna for their work with the teenagers and their support.

To conclude the event, there was a moment of soul and music. Yevhen, a bandura player, performed well-known songs on the bandura, giving the teenagers an emotional break after the intensive work.

The teenagers gained knowledge, support, and a chance to take action.

We also thank the food establishments Nova Pizza, Best Kids, and Faine Misto.

Special thanks to the donors Nazar and Ken Surridge for providing pocket money to the teenagers so they could practice developing financial literacy.

Volodia Yavorskyy

Andriy Nazarenko

Zoriana Vitushynska

We are grateful to the institutions Berezhany Lyceum of the Ternopil Regional Council and Open Space Ternopil for their cooperation.

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