Presentation of SAFE (Social Awareness for (War) Experiences) for Youth Work

In September, the Leadership School of Berdyansk State Pedagogical University (BSPU) and the Department of Social Work and Inclusive Education held a meeting entitled “Presentation of SAFE (Social Awareness for (War) Experiences) for Youth Work.” The event focused on tools for supporting young people and facilitating dialogue and learning in communities affected by war, forced displacement, and social change.

The guest speaker was Anastasiia Netrebytska, a team member of the NGO “STAN,” a trainer, and a facilitator of the YDA programme. The meeting was organised by Alla Melnychuk, coordinator of the Leadership School and Assistant Lecturer at the Department of Social Work and Inclusive Education.

During the event, participants explored the SAFE handbook, which offers practical exercises, methods, and recommendations for youth work. They discussed how to create safe spaces, plan meaningful learning experiences, and address sensitive topics responsibly using a trauma-informed approach.

The tools presented are grounded in learning through experience, reflection, and interaction with others. They help young people explore their identities, build trust and mutual understanding, and engage with difficult topics gradually, at a pace that reflects their readiness. This approach is particularly important when working with people whose lives have been affected by war and forced displacement.

Anastasiia Netrebytska also shared insights into the work of the NGO “STAN.” The organisation brings people together to build an open, democratic society, supports community initiatives, and creates opportunities for young people to participate actively in community life. Its key areas of work include supporting people whose voices often go unheard, creating spaces for values-based development, and helping young people put their ideas into practice.

The meeting also addressed the role of young people in amplifying Ukraine’s voice abroad. Participants discussed the importance of sharing Ukrainian experiences and the opportunities young people have to shape how Ukraine is understood internationally.

• In their feedback, participants highlighted the practical value of the meeting and its motivating impact.
  “The online meeting with Ms Netrebytska was more than an informative event for me; it offered a window into the world of youth work and community initiatives. Her presentation helped me learn more about the work of the NGO ‘STAN’ and how young people can be supported not only through words, but also through tangible opportunities for development.

I was particularly interested in the way the organisation sees young people as active agents of change. It helps them believe in themselves, discover their abilities, learn to work in a team, express their views, and bring their ideas to life.

After the meeting, I reflected on how many meaningful changes can begin with a single conversation, an act of support, or a small initiative. The event left me with new knowledge and a desire to be more active, recognise opportunities for growth, and contribute to worthwhile activities in my community. My sincere thanks to Ms Netrebytska for her openness and inspiration, and to Ms Melnychuk for organising the meeting.”

• Another participant emphasised the importance of such events for personal and professional development:
  “The meeting was engaging, informative, and motivating. Speaking with a representative of the NGO ‘STAN,’ who shared her experience, useful resources, and practical opportunities for development, was especially valuable.

For me, this event became a source of new ideas and inspiration. Meetings like this help us recognise our potential, believe in ourselves, and understand that leadership also involves responsibility, initiative, and a willingness to act.

After the meeting, I felt motivated to keep developing, use the resources provided, and put my own ideas into practice. Thank you to Alla Bohdanivna Melnychuk for organising the event, and to the speaker for her openness, sincerity, and the inspiring atmosphere!”

Leadership School meetings are held as part of the course “Innovative Models of Social Service Delivery” within the “Post-War Social and Psychological Reintegration” degree programme. Discussions with practitioners allow students to explore tools for working with young people and communities and consider how to apply them in their future professional practice.

The event’s themes also relate to the Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 4 “Quality Education,” SDG 10 “Reduced Inequalities,” SDG 16 “Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions,” and SDG 17 “Partnerships for the Goals.”

Based on materials provided by Alla Melnychuk,
Assistant Lecturer at the Department of Social Work and Inclusive Education and
Coordinator of the BSPU Leadership School