Skip to main content
European Union logo
New European Bauhaus Prizes

Regaining a sense of belonging

Youth Center "Volya" – A Hub for Growth
Youth Center "Volya": A Space for Development, Self-Expression, and Youth Entrepreneurship
The Youth Center "Volya" in Terelya is a space for development, self-expression, and innovation. Here, young people can realize their ideas, acquire new skills through workshops, training, and social entrepreneurship. The center has become a hub for over 600 youth, reducing emigration and fostering community growth. "Volya" is a place of empowerment for youth and an important part of the development of their hometown!
Ukraine
Local
Bushtyno Territorial Community includes 9 villages: Bushtyno, Vonigovo, Novobarovo, Tereblya, Dulovo, Krychovo, Chumalovo, Rossosh, Rivne
Mainly rural
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
Yes
2024-11-25
No
No
No
As an individual

The Youth Center "Volya" project aims to provide the youth of the village of Terelya and other settlements within the Bushtyno Territorial Community with a space for development, self-expression, and social entrepreneurship. The center offers opportunities for youth to engage in creativity, learning, organize cultural and social events, and implement business initiatives through a social entrepreneurship model based on a CNC woodworking machine.
The target group of the project is young people aged 14 to 35, who seek to acquire new skills, develop personally, and engage in community life. The project has achieved significant youth engagement, with over 600 participants in various programs, which positively impacts the reduction of emigration and fosters the desire to stay and develop their hometown.
The project integrates and promotes the values of the New European Bauhaus by combining aesthetics, sustainability, and inclusivity. The center, as a physical space, was restored from an old abandoned building, contributing not only to the improvement of the community’s appearance but also to the enhancement of life quality. The center’s programs focus on youth development, supporting entrepreneurship, and ensuring inclusive opportunities for all community members, regardless of their social or economic status.
This project also addresses several challenges faced by the community: reducing youth emigration, the lack of cultural and social venues for young people, and the need for new job opportunities and local entrepreneurship development. As a result, the project strengthens social cohesion, increases youth participation in community life, and provides new opportunities for sustainable development and investment attraction.
Youth
Inclusivity
Development
Entrepreneurship
Social Integration
One of the key objectives of the "Volya" Youth Center project is to create a space that combines aesthetic appeal and high-quality experiences for users. By renovating an old, abandoned building, the project not only improves the community's appearance but also provides a comfortable environment for young people where they can feel free and inspired.
The aesthetic aspect of the center was carefully considered. The interior design combines modern solutions with elements reflecting local culture and traditions, creating an atmosphere that inspires creativity and interaction. The space is open, functional, and stylish, allowing young people to not only work and learn but also relax and participate in cultural events. The use of eco-friendly materials and sustainable technologies during the renovation contributes to improving the building's appearance and increasing its energy efficiency, which is an important aspect of sustainable development.
Additionally, the cultural events held at the center foster the development of aesthetic taste and cultural awareness among the youth. The project involves organizing exhibitions, performances, workshops, and other cultural initiatives that allow young people to explore new horizons in art and culture. This encourages creativity, emotional maturity, and intercultural communication among the participants.
The "Volya" project is an example of how aesthetic and functional aspects of a space can be combined to create an environment that inspires and promotes personal and social development. Thanks to this center, youth not only gain a physical space for their initiatives but also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in an atmosphere of cultural and aesthetic enrichment.
The key objective of the "Volya" Youth Center project is to create a space that not only meets the physical needs of young people but also provides an aesthetic experience that inspires creativity and self-expression. Renovating the old building into a modern youth center allowed for the combination of contemporary design with elements of local culture, creating a unique atmosphere for the users.
The interior design of the center focuses on open spaces that foster socialization and active participation in events. The use of natural materials and eco-friendly solutions in the decor supports the principles of sustainable development, which is an essential part of the project. Great attention has been given to lighting, color schemes, and ergonomics, creating a comfortable environment for learning, creativity, and relaxation.
The cultural events organized at the center hold significant aesthetic value for the youth. Exhibitions, workshops, concerts, and theater performances offer opportunities for self-expression, promote creative thinking, and develop emotional sensitivity among participants. This fosters the involvement of youth in the cultural life of the community and enhances their aesthetic perception.
The "Volya" project is an example of how functionality and aesthetics can be combined in a single space, creating a place that inspires development and self-expression. Thanks to this center, young people gain opportunities for learning and entrepreneurship while also immersing themselves in a cultural environment that enhances their creative and social skills.
The key objective of the "Volya" Youth Center project is to provide inclusive access to opportunities for development, learning, and self-expression for all youth in the community. The center is designed to be accessible to everyone without exception: young people with various physical abilities, those with limited financial resources, and those seeking opportunities for development in areas ranging from creativity to entrepreneurship.
All programs at the youth center are affordably priced, making it possible to engage young people from different social backgrounds. The center offers free or low-cost events, allowing even those with limited financial means to actively participate in community life. The space is also designed to be accessible to people with physical disabilities: wider passages, ramps, and designated spaces for inclusive events.
In terms of governance inclusivity, the youth center actively involves young people in the decision-making process. All initiatives and programs are developed with the community’s needs in mind, and youth have the opportunity to become not just participants, but also organizers of events. This creates a system where the voice of young people is considered when developing policies related to their development and future.
The "Volya" project serves as an example of how an inclusive space can be created, one that supports equal opportunities for all young people, regardless of their limitations or social status. It also serves as a model for other communities on how to create accessible, inclusive, and sustainable spaces for development.
The "Volya" Youth Center project aligns with the three core principles of the New European Bauhaus: sustainability, aesthetics, and inclusivity, making it exemplary for other communities.
1. Sustainability: The renovation of an old, abandoned building using eco-friendly materials and energy-saving technologies follows sustainable development principles. All decisions regarding the renovation and organization of the space are aimed at minimizing the environmental impact. This also ensures the long-term preservation of the building, which will become an essential resource for the community for many years to come.
2. Aesthetics: The design of the center blends modern elements with local traditions, creating a space that is not only functional but also inspiring. Considering the cultural heritage of the community during the renovation helps young people feel connected to their roots while simultaneously opening up new opportunities for self-expression and creativity.
3. Inclusivity: The project actively involves the public, particularly local youth, in the decision-making process. Young people participate in organizing events, identifying key areas of activity, and even developing new initiatives. This approach fosters a sense of responsibility for the community’s development and ensures that the needs and interests of different youth groups are addressed.
An important aspect is that the youth center not only provides opportunities for growth but also actively forms new social bonds and communities. Local residents, especially the youth, have become initiators of many activities, allowing them to feel part of the process. They also participated in discussions about the design and functionality of the space, which enhanced their sense of belonging to the project and strengthened social ties within the community.
The "Volya" Youth Center project resulted from active collaboration with various stakeholders at all levels — from local to European. Their involvement added significant value to the project's design and implementation.
1. Local level: Local authorities, particularly the Boustyn village council and other local government bodies, played an essential role in supporting the project from the early stages by providing permits, resources, and organizing joint initiatives with the community. Their active engagement not only accelerated the project's implementation but also ensured that the youth center became an integral part of the local infrastructure.
2. Regional level: The regional authorities of the Tyachiv district supported the integration of the youth center into the broader social and economic development strategy of the region. Their involvement helped raise awareness about youth issues in the mountainous regions of the Zakarpattia region and included these issues in regional initiatives focusing on youth policy development and entrepreneurship.
3. National level: At the national level, the project was supported through UNICEF, which provided financial and advisory support. This collaboration gave the project access to international standards and best practices, ensuring high levels of organization and effectiveness. It also helped create strategies for scaling the project to other communities in Ukraine.
4. European level: The European Union, through the New European Bauhaus initiative, supported the project's concept of sustainability and inclusivity, allowing European principles to be integrated into the planning and implementation stages. Their support provided international recognition for the project and highlighted the importance of developing youth centers as part of the European sustainable development strategy.
The "Volya" Youth Center project integrated various disciplines and knowledge fields, enabling the creation of an effective, functional, and aesthetically pleasing space. The renovation of the building, space design, and implementation required collaboration between architects, designers, engineers, environmental experts, sociologists, and cultural managers.
1. Architecture and Design: Architects and designers developed the concept of the space, combining modern solutions with elements of local culture. They ensured not only functionality but also aesthetic appeal, creating an atmosphere that fosters creativity and socialization. An important aspect was preserving the historical appearance of the building while integrating it into the local community context.
2. Engineering and Sustainability: Engineers worked on the technical aspects of the project, including energy-saving technologies, heating and lighting systems, and ensuring the accessibility of the space for people with physical disabilities. They ensured the use of eco-friendly materials and technologies that reduce environmental impact.
3. Sociology and Cultural Management: Sociologists and cultural managers were involved in studying the needs of the local youth, helping to create programs that meet their interests and requirements. They also ensured the active participation of the community in the project by developing strategies to involve youth in management and event organization.
The collaboration of specialists from various fields allowed for a result that combines high technological efficiency with cultural value and aesthetic satisfaction for the community. This enhanced the quality of the outcome, making it more integrated and considering different aspects of community development.
The "Volya" Youth Center project is innovative due to its integration of sustainability, inclusivity, and social interaction principles, which go beyond traditional practices in youth work and public spaces.
1. Space Utilization Innovation: Traditionally, most youth centers are standard buildings focused solely on event organization. At "Volya," the space is designed as a multifunctional hub that serves not only for training, lectures, and cultural events but also supports social entrepreneurship (e.g., wood processing business). This approach combines learning and creativity with practical skills, boosting youth economic activity.
2. Inclusivity and Accessibility: The opening of this center demonstrates a new approach to inclusivity. The youth center is accessible to all social groups of young people and ensures physical accessibility for individuals with disabilities. All events and programs at the center are designed to integrate youth with different needs and abilities. This approach significantly differs from traditional models where inclusion is often minimized.
3. Youth Involvement in Management and Content Creation: An innovation is the active participation of youth in creating programs and events. They are not only consumers of services but also organizers and initiators of activities. This approach to youth participation in governance creates a more organic and engaged community, which is unique compared to typical youth centers where decision-making is often reserved solely for adults.
4. Sustainable Development through Eco-friendly Solutions: The center implements innovative energy-saving technologies and uses eco-friendly materials, making the project not only socially beneficial but also environmentally sustainable.
These innovations make "Volya" an example for future initiatives that integrate economic, social, and environmental aspects, while also enhancing the level of involvement and participation of local youth in managing their environment
The "Volya" Youth Center project applied a methodology combining principles of inclusivity, sustainability, and active community engagement, particularly involving youth, in the design and implementation process.
1. Co-creation and Community Participation: In the initial phase of the project, we actively involved youth and the local community in identifying the needs and desired functions of the youth center. We conducted surveys, focus groups, and discussions, which helped form the vision for the future space. Young people had the opportunity to express their thoughts on what the center should include and how it could improve their lives. This approach ensured the space was tailored to the needs of the target audience.
2. Inclusive Approach: We applied principles of accessibility for all, regardless of physical abilities or social status. During the design phase, we accounted for the necessity of creating an inclusive environment, including specially designed spaces for people with disabilities. All programs and events at the center are aimed at involving a wide range of youth, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone.
3. Sustainable Development: The methodology also involved using environmentally friendly materials and energy-saving technologies that minimize the environmental footprint. As a result, we not only created a beneficial space for youth but also took care of the environment. The center was designed with the use of renewable energy sources and materials with low carbon emissions.
4. Innovative Management Methods: The principles of co-management were integrated by involving youth in decision-making and event organization, giving them the opportunity to not only use the services but also actively participate in the life of the center.
The "Volya" Youth Center project has high potential for transferability and replicability in other communities, thanks to several key elements that can be adapted and applied in different contexts.
1. Community and Youth Engagement Methodology: The co-creation of the project with active involvement from local youth is one of the project's main strengths. This approach can be successfully applied in other communities where it is important to involve young people in decision-making and initiative development. Various participatory methods, such as surveys, focus groups, and open discussions, can be used to identify the needs and interests of other communities.
2. Inclusive and Accessible Design: The creation of an accessible space for all social groups, including people with disabilities, is an element that can easily be transferred. The project demonstrates how to ensure the physical accessibility of space and programs for various categories of youth. This approach can be implemented in other youth centers, social institutions, and public spaces.
3. Use of Sustainable Technologies and Eco-friendly Materials: The choice of eco-friendly materials, energy-saving technologies, and renewable energy sources can be applied to other construction projects, particularly for community and youth spaces. This reduces the environmental impact, which is an important consideration for many communities aiming for sustainable development.
4. Innovative Programs and Social Entrepreneurship: The model of social entrepreneurship based at youth centers, such as the wood processing business at "Volya," can be transferred to other regions to develop entrepreneurial skills among youth and create new jobs. This enables the creation of economically self-sustaining youth spaces.
The "Volya" Youth Center project addresses several global challenges by providing local solutions related to sustainable development, social inclusion, youth economic activity, and environmental preservation.
1. Youth Migration and Unemployment: A global challenge is the outflow of young people from rural areas, particularly in small communities. The project creates conditions for youth development by providing opportunities to gain practical skills, find employment, or engage in entrepreneurship, especially through the social enterprise at the youth center. This helps retain young people in their communities by offering them prospects for personal and professional growth.
2. Inclusivity and Social Inequality: A global challenge is ensuring equal opportunities for all groups, especially for people with disabilities. The center was created with principles of accessibility and inclusivity, allowing people with different physical abilities to participate in all activities and programs. It also focuses on socially marginalized groups, providing them with access to resources and development opportunities.
3. Environmental Preservation and Sustainable Development: In the context of global climate change, it is essential to implement sustainable technologies and solutions. The youth center project uses energy-saving technologies, eco-friendly materials, and renewable energy sources, helping reduce the environmental impact. This approach provides a local solution to address global environmental challenges.
4. Local Economic Development through Innovation: Supporting social entrepreneurship and creating new jobs is an important contribution to local economic development. It helps not only create new opportunities for youth but also contributes to the economic stability of the region.
The "Volya" Youth Center project has demonstrated significant results and positive impacts on the community, particularly on the youth demographic, and is highly valuable for the local economy, social inclusion, and sustainable development.
1. Active Youth Engagement: In the first year of operation, over 600 young people participated in the programs offered by the youth center. This reflects a high level of interest in the center's initiatives and programs, which include educational workshops, cultural events, and social activities. Youth are actively involved in project implementation, event organization, and proposing new ideas.
2. Reduction in Emigration and Social Stability: A key impact of the center is its role in reducing youth emigration from the community. The opening of "Volya" provided young people with opportunities to develop locally. This also led to improved trust between youth and local authorities, contributing to social stability.
3. Job Creation and Social Entrepreneurship: A social enterprise for wood processing using CNC machinery has been established at the youth center. This has created new jobs and engaged youth in entrepreneurship. The business has brought additional investment to the local economy, and youth have gained practical skills in technological production.
4. Increased Inclusivity and Accessibility: The center has become accessible to all social groups, including youth with disabilities. Special attention is paid to making events inclusive, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone.
5. Impact on Local Policy: The practice of youth-led management and involvement in the center's activities has helped young people take an active role in community life. This has positively impacted the development of local policies and the involvement of youth in decision-making processes at the local level.