Connecting Voices № 1: How an Online Meeting Turned Zoom into a Space for Youth Action
When young people come together—ideas, courage, and real action emerge
The online format has long been the norm, but not every event truly brings people together. Connecting Voices, initiated by the beYOUnd team, proved that even in just two hours on Zoom, it’s possible to create a sense of community, trust, and real interaction among young people from different regions of Ukraine.
The event began with a simple yet telling question: “What role do YOU play in your community?” Within minutes, the chat was filled with responses: volunteer, active participant, citizen, listener. This exercise not only helped “warm up” the participants but also set the tone for the entire meeting—every voice and every experience matters.
During the event, Rada, a representative of the beYOUnd team, shared her own experience with volunteering—from her first tentative steps to systematic work with young people. Her story served as an example of how a personal journey can inspire others to take responsibility and not be afraid to start small.
Connecting Voices was based on the principle of learning by doing. In the Skill Up game format, participants practiced their English vocabulary, reaction speed, and teamwork skills. The supportive and humorous atmosphere allowed them to practice the language without fear of making mistakes or being judged. Based on the game results, one of the participants received a gift from the event’s partners — Polyglot.
The final part of the meeting was dedicated to addressing the real challenges young people face on a daily basis. Participants developed their own ideas—ranging from informal “English & Coffee” sessions to mentoring clubs. As a result, they proposed practical solutions that could potentially be implemented in local communities in the near future.
Connecting Voices served as an example of how an online event can evolve into a platform for sharing experiences, learning, and collaboratively finding solutions. The event brought young people together around ideas of development, mutual support, and active participation in community life.
The beYOUnd team would like to thank all participants for their openness and engagement, as well as our partners Polyglot — for your support and belief in the potential of young people.
It is precisely these kinds of encounters that spark change.
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