EYP www.eyp-ua.org www.eypej.org
Official newspaper issue of EYP-Ukraine #4 (15) November 2012 - January 2013
igeon
T I ED
L A I OR
N
2
ew Year has come and it’s time to draw the line and set new goals. New Board is ruling the organisation since the 15th of December, and this issue is to introduce the changes. 2012 for EYP-Ukraine was full of different events: National and Regional Sessions, EYPWeekends, International Forum, Inter Rail, lots of General Assemblies, Leadership and Board meetings, Alumni Weekend and Happy Hours. Among the achievements of 2012 is the win of the bid to host the 77th International Session in autumn 2014 in Kyiv. EYP-Ukraine now has more than 800 likes on FB and more than 1,000 subscribers on VK. Thanks to eco-friendly initiatives of EYP-Ukraine more than 1,000 young people became aware of important ecological issues and got used to eco-cups instead of plastic ones. Thanks to enthusiasm and self dedication of Board and Leadership Group members we’ve successfully moved through this apocalyptic year to a brighter future. 2013 was decided to be dedicated to European values. This general topic will unite all the events of EYP-UA this year. Get ready for new challenges, stay tuned and apply for the upcoming sessions! From the depth of my heart I wish this new year to make you believe in miracles. Hope, you remain with EYP in 2013 and many years after. Maria Shcherbak, Editor/Layout Designer
Contents #4 (15) November 2012 - January 2013
BREEFLY EYP Anniversary
4
Don’t Give AIDS a Chance
5
EYP For Kids
5
New Partner
5
General Assembly
6
Session Francophone
7
UPCOMING 8-9
The 7th National Session FOCUS
10-11
New Board Summarizing 2012 -
12-13
Planning For 2013 OPINION
W
inter holidays have always been the warmest time of the year to me because the whole month I am thinking about my dearest people: relatives and friends. This is also the time to sum up the old year, reminiscing all the events, meetings, holidays. Analyzing 2012, I realized that this year, perhaps, was the most crucial in my life, having fixed EYP once and for all in my heart. I thought about all those people who burst into my life this year and became an inseparable part of myself. Without any exaggerations, each single one I met here, in EYP, complements me in one’s unique way, fulfills me and makes me better. You are the reason of me feeling that I’m there where I belong. I believe, that one kind word can warm three winter months. Having a great opportunity to address to everyone I want to say “Thank you” for being there for me and for making this year so special! Iryna Garbuz, Board Member on Public Relations
14-15
The 3rd InterRail Feedback PEOPLE Lucky EYP Number
16
Face Control
17
EYP ABROAD EYP-Ukraine Travels Abroad
18-19
The 13th Estonian NS
21
The 71st IS in Amsterdam
22-23
Entrepreneurship Summit
24
Swedish RS
25
POST SCRIPTUM
is
department pr speaking
3
by Maria Romanenko
THE TWENTY-FIFTH EYP
ANNIVERSARY Joyeux anniversaire, Parlement Européen des Jeunes!
T
he non-French speakers or French non-speakers, like me, should have learnt in advance to pronounce this greeting on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the European Youth Parliament, which took place in Fontainebleau, France, 6-7th October 2012. However, in terms of language that evening was exceptional, even for France: the old theatre with a huge EYP banner, probably seen from the outer space, was filled with a diverse friendly community, speaking all possible European languages. Fontainebleau was chosen for a celebration not due to its famous palaces (just to remember the video of Lana del Rey “We Were Born To Die”) or because all the hotels in Berlin or Paris were sold out. There is a much deeper reason behind - EYP was established in 1987 exactly in Fontainebleau, France. So EVERYTHING started just there! One of the key figures of the celebration was Mrs. Bettina Carr-Allinson. This incredibly charismatic lady has initiated European youth engagement in citizenship and cultural understanding through the mini-model of the European parliament, basically -
4
the EYP sessions we know today. First sessions were held at the Lycée FrançoisIer in Fontainebleau. It was an exceptional honor to meet Bettina and to thank her on behalf of the EYP-Ukraine for the great idea, which continues to unite Europe through younger generations.
The historic photo with the founder, starring Anna Suprunenko and Maria Romanenko, behind the scenes – Lyubov Dvoretska, Anastasia Ianovytska, and Angelina Tarashevska.
For the main course that evening they served - the official celebration ceremony and a round table on the future of the organisation - “Looking back, looking forward”. The dessert included EYPers favorites – Eurovillage and Euroconcert. The first included surprises like meeting my
first chair – Carl-Alexander Van Tornout (BE) and walking along the wall of EYP history, where everyone could pin his/her session t-shirt or a session newspaper. The second will forever stay in my memory with a big round of applause to the performance of a gorgeous …red dress. It was so impressive, that its owner Anastasia Ianovytska (UA) could easily stand on the stage without performing! And later on singing “Imagine” with a choir, switching to signing “Dragonstea din tei”, which is a classical song about nothing special if to believe the announcement of the song by the performer Crtistian Simion (RO), lighting your phones to support some extremely cheese lyrics, breathlessly following the movements of a contemp-dancer Ruben Wagenaar (NL) – is just a shortlist of unforgettable moments one missed that night. All in all, the anniversary was one of those special events, when I truly felt that even though EYP is quite young (gosh, it is just one year older than me!), but can already boast such a unique network of open-minded spirits, bright personalities and talented hearts that will have even more than 25 great years ahead!
BREEFLY
NEW
G
partner
reat news! EYP-Ukraine has a new partner, and it’s Ukrainian International Airlines! Since now for every ticket bought from UIA through the link the company will put 4USD to EYP-Ukraine account as charity contribution to the future EYP-Ukraine events. We would kindly ask you to spread the word among your friends. Now each of you can contribute to the budget of EYP-Ukraine, let’s fundraise all together! Find updates on the results of the fundraising campaign at EYP-Ukraine page in the social networks.
O
n the 18th of January EYP-Ukraine attended children’s library to get kids aquainted with NGO’s concept and bring some EYP spirit into their little hearts. Kseniia Choni conducted a small presentation of our organisation, explained what a session is and what it consists of. Roksolana Pidlasa and Olena Yermakova even illustrated it conducting a few teambuilding games, and learning some new English words with kids. They enjoyed it, and promised to join EYP, when they grow up. At the end of the event children painted EYP cups, so since now you may purchase an ecofriendly cup, painted by a child!
by Olena Yermakova
YOUTH FORUM IN THE
O
CONDOM STYLE
n the 29th of November 2012 the Youth Forum called “Don’t Give AIDS a Chance” took place in Kyiv. If you are an EYP-er - you do not simply miss such an event. So, Anton, Alex and Nazar took part in it. From the very beginning till the end of party the Forum was in condom style. During the training on human rights and tolerance participants had a discussion about LGBT people, people who live with HIV/ AIDS and about their place in society. During the discussion, was great to realise that EYP-ers are tolerant and democratic people having almost the same vision as the experts do.
by Nazar Zhovtovskyi
by
G
T
N
E
R
A
L
ASSEMBLY
he journalists’ team of EYPigeon assumes that it may be quite hard to remember the details of the latest General Assembly which took place in Kyiv, on the 15th of December after all Ukrainian New Year Holidays. Thus, I would like to bring back several reasons why 30 prominent individuals gathered at Chernovnoarmiiska, 30 in the middle of the fuss of the New Year’s Eve. First of all our aim was to recall the events which took place during Year 2012 and to set a round of generous applause to those people who made these events happen and succeed. The
6
E
gyr h Z ia Lidi
Amsterdam IS delegation from Ukraine presented its report and gave some advice to future delegates of International Sessions. Those EYPers who have been especially active during the year had contributed a lot to the development of the organisation were awarded with special diplomas, which amused the public and became a good motivation for all newcomers. But as experienced managers may know, summation of the past is a first stage of setting goals for future. Thus, after the Board-2012 reported to the public on the activities in 2012, they introduced new Board of 2013,
which has been recently selected. The second part of the GA was meant for presenting the plan for the Year 2013 and for organisers to inform about future EYPUkraine events. As you might know, youth is fun and, therefore, European Youth Parliament would probably become European Parliament without fun. After the GA the participants, warmed with usual EYP stuff like games, gossips and coffee with cookies, proceeded to a cosy pub to celebrate New Year in close EYP family, exchange presents and wish each other lots of kind words for the future year.
BREEFLY
S
E
S
S
I
O
N
FRANCOPHONE
M
arch, VinSpring National Selection: Swedish delegate delivers a point in French. I raise “Why???” placard which, together with other ones, caused a minute of active laughing during the General Assembly. July, Menden Summer Forum: Bastille Day. Active using of French by delegates during the General Assembly. September, InterRail in Lutsk: I conduct half of the GA in French. October, Estonia, 13th National Selection: Active usage of French by delegates. Using a Direct Response already before was the only thing prevented me to respond to a point in French. This row of occasions strengthened my willingness to organise a francophone event in Ukraine. Having once learned French in my childhood, together with
my attitude to multilingual surrounding and the GA in Lutsk triggered my desire to organise such a session. After consulting with Leadership, I was full of enthusiasm. Madame Zhgyr and moi-même started our presession preparation. Being time-limited, we managed to organise it. Not-withstanding all the obstacles and troubles. What kept us going was our enthusiasm. “Enthusiasm is not a remote control: you cannot simply loose it” - this phrase said by me when talking with Mme Korniichuk was determined to be my new self-inspiration motto. Needless to say, that the CJOs team was really amazing. The session was pre s i d e d
by Mme Olena Vazhynska (UA). Beside usual session emotions, I believe, everybody discovered a completely new side of EYP: PEJ. Listening to the GA in French, watching Leadership people trying to say something in French and seeing Mike’s excitement from being called Monsieur Rozhkov made it clear, that all the efforts put by everyone was not useless. We can now for sure proclaim that we have also PEJUkraine.
ovod h k r e on V t n by A
ov
7
E
YP-Ukraine is delighted to announce the approaching 7th National Selection Conference, which is to take place in the picturesque city of Ivano-Frankivsk. The session will be held on February 6-10, 2013 and will gather 140 young people from all over Ukraine and abroad. 90 Ukrainian delegates will compete for places in the Ukrainian delegations to International Sessions in Munich and Tbilisi, as well as other events all over Europe. The session will be presided by Ms. Anastasiia Ianovytska from Ukraine. Discussions will be united under the topic “Value Europe�. Despite all the differences and
8
interest conflicts, we still have common European values: freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and the plurality of thoughts. It is important to appreciate our common history, culture and consciousness. The session will include one day of teambuilding, 2 days of committee work, one free day, where all the participants will have a city tour and preliminary debates, and a General Assembly day. Evening activities will include traditional Eurovillage, Euroconcert, as well as several parties. The organizing team is working hard to assure that all the session’s participants will gain bright, useful and fun experience from the event.
UPCOMING
M TE AR
IA OL
TIA KA
IA EN KS
R ZA NA
A DI NA
IA OL A SH DA
The preliminary presentation of motions for resolution will create a room for putting additional corrections, inputs and ideas into the final document, ensuring the quality of ideas presented and promising fruitful and heated debates at the General Assembly.
R GO
YE Hope that you all are getting excited about the session. We’re dedicating all our efforts and striving for making the event a truly unforgettable experience for each of you!
TA NA
9
W E N
T
he major change in the governing of EYP-Ukraine was determined during the Board elections in the early autumn of 2012. The candidates were introduced to the public, and the GA participants were encouraged to vote for their favorites. Since each organised event provides the organisation with fresh enthusiastic members, the candidates were mainly newcomers. Nevertheless, the biggest authority and responsibility remained in the hands of more experienced EYPers: Ms. President Anna Suprunenko, Vice Presidents Yegor Vlasenko and Anna Lachykhina. Many people regard the Board as a very serious governing body, which is responsible for each decision, always busy with fundraising, concerned about EYP International affairs, and which never has time for individual members. Well, some of the prejudices are correct, but minor changes have to be made. Taking into account the recent interviews, Board members confirmed that EYP is their favorite tireless job, full of new ideas, people and experiences. You would never imagine
10
o zeennkko u z H u Alleexx H y A b by
that serious and crucial policies are introduced and debated while having a cup of tea in the cozy cafe downtown Kyiv. Very often the Board members spend hours watching a play in the theater, and do not ever expect to discuss the coming-up session, or an annual budget report afterwards. Despite work, studying and extracurricular activities, they all find time to meet and discuss the recent EYP agenda. Many of them are concerned about the huge amount of e-mails, or lack of space on the desktop for storing all the documentation, some have no idea how to use Google docs or struggling with Dropbox data bases, but they are learning and helping each other to overcome the faced difficulties. The Board is aiming for better and the key force of their productivity enthusiasm, friendship and love. They all love coffee, teambuilding and travelling, have lots of friends abroad, and a dream, they are working towards. As an every member of the European Youth Parliament, they are special, and by believing and trusting, you gave them a chance to shape your future in EYP. FOCUS
ANNA SUPRUNENKO (22*) President
YEGOR VLASENKO (22) VP** on Fundraising
ROKSOLANA PIDLASA (18) VP on International Activities
IULIIA PUSTOVOITOVA (21) BM*** on Human Resources
IRYNA GARBUZ (19) BM on Public Relations
OLENA YERMAKOVA (18) BM on Regional Development
KRISTINA CHELMAKINA (21) Head of the Auditing Committee
ANTON VERKHOVODOV (19) Member of the Aud. Committee
ANASTASIIA IANOVYTSKA (24) Member of the Aud. Committee * - here and after - the age ** - Vice President *** - Board Member
OLEKSANDR HUZENKO (18) Secretary
D R A BO 11
12
Winter is a season when everything ends and starts at the same time. Now when the previous Board has successfully accomplished its duties, a new Board is ready to take up a responsible role. Analysing the work of the Board in 2012, the next Board will work on solidifying the innovations introduced in 2012. New Board
ronmental protection. “Green” initiatives led to establishing a partnership with the civic initiative “Let’s Do It, Ukraine!” Financing conditions have improved significantly, the total budget of 2012 estimates UAH 376 469. “We put the main focus on activities that provided the greatest return for both time and cost”, says Ms. President. 2012 for EYP-UA began with
During the last year EYPUkraine felt constant support from its irreproachable partners: “Open Hearts” Charitable Foundation, Group DF, SCM and FoodBank. The foundations played an important role in the sustainability of EYP-Ukraine and kept having an on-going interest in our activities throughout the year. Our organisation actively supports its sponsors as
has also set a long term strategy and vision of 2013 EYP-Ukraine events. In 2012 EYP-Ukraine held 18 events involving over 15 regions in order to enlarge the network of EYP all over Ukraine. All the activities were united under the common topic “Naturally connected” as 2012 was announced a “green year” for EYP-Ukraine, dedicated to ecology and envi-
two spring sessions, the 6th National Session in Vinnytsia and the 5th Regional Session in Kyiv followed by the 1st Odesa International Forum held in summer. Among other year achievements worth recognizing are Inter-rail tour with mini-sessions in 15 cities that involved 556 participants and EYP weekends that gathered 168 participants from 5 different regions.
well: EYPers have participated in a number of projects organised by Open Hearts Foundation, among which are ‘Let’s do it Ukraine’, ‘Merciful Valentine’, ‘YAZDAMKROV’ and others. The last 12 months have been a time of establishing new connections, making EYP-Ukraine stronger. Much was achieved by members of the departments who made their best to extend
FOCUS
our reach into the EYP International community. I would like to acknowledge the efforts of our outstanding volunteers without whom we would not be able to achieve as much in supporting the organisation: Mike Rozhkov, Maria Shcherbak, Olena Yermakova, Liza Aleksandrovych, Oksana Andrusyak, Kseniya Choni, Kateryna Baskenova, Aleksey
ian youth on such issues as democracy, human rights and sustainable development. With a solid number of EYP sessions to be organized in 2013 EYPUA wants to introduce EYP in 15 cities all over Ukraine, starting with National Selection Conference in IvanoFrankivsk in February 2013, followed by Kyiv Road Safety Summit (May), Lviv Interna-
cally’. 2012 has been a very successful year for European Youth Parliament-Ukraine. Our achievements have been recognized by various Ukrainian decision makers. We will continue putting all our efforts in bringing European dream to the hearts and minds of young Ukrainians – and we thank all those who have supported and
Prylipka, Anton Verhovodov, Marichka Ihnatova and Nazar Zhovtovskyi. The dedicated Board members of 2012 volunteered to serve the NGO and freely provided their guidance and expertise. With year 2013 already on the calendar new Board is happy to announce next year’s topic “Value Europe”, aiming to discuss and educate Ukrain-
tional Forum (August) and the 4th Inter-Rail tour planned for September. “Our goals are long-term, and the Autumn International Session to be held in Kyiv in 2014 can prove it”, says Anna Suprunenko. Though longterm goals never discourage short-term ones on which the EYP stands: ‘Think globally, act lo-
encouraged our work in the past few years. Hope that the year 2013 for EYP-Ukraine will be even more bright and successful, than the previous one.
13
INTER ail
Solomiya Pavlishyn (Delegate): It’s a good experience for me, which brings a possibility to express one’s mind and ideas in solving global problems. InterRail is a train, full of good mood and enthusiasm.
“
Nata Kalyn (Local Organiser): Frankly speaking, working with Ivano-Frankivsk students and pupils was an amazingly big surprise for me. I had some concerns before the session, mainly because of the working language (as it's English) and I never expected that we have so many talented, broad-minded and - what's important - fluently English-speaking young people in Ivano-Frankivsk, who are really interested in topics that were discussed. As far as I know, it’s not only my observation but also the impression of the whole Official Team.
14
Mike Rozhkov (Chair): The 3rd InterRail Tour of EYP-Ukraine was the time when I really felt unique and unforgettable EYP spirit. My international team inspired me to do EYP further. I chaired 3 times and met different interesting people. Those emotions are priceless.
Konstantin von Brocke (President): I came with high expectations to the InterRail session in Ivano-Frankivsk, which were met at and beyond my hopes. The organisation ran well and smoothly so that the time with new friends and bright future EYPers was a fabulous experience. Good accommodation, fantastic food, a warm welcome by the Dean, and many new friends supported this experience very well. Being only a short session, I wished that it was longer and that I had more time to spend in Ivano-Frankivsk.
OPINION Yelizaveta Buben (Delegate): It was my first EYP experience, and it was amazing. Firstly I thought that it will be boring, but then I understood that I have mistaken. For me the most interesting part was teambuilding and also debates, because of the possibility to improve my English and skills as a speaker. I am looking forward to the next EYP session.
“
Khristina Ivanuts (Delegate): I liked InterRail in general. To tell the truth it was a little unusual for me and strange (especially exercises in the first day), but I liked my committee and the atmosphere in it. I have good impressions.
Solomiya Dmytruk (Delegate): It was so memorable! A lot of students were involved in discussing different political problems of Ukraine. I must admit this event was unforgettable and the work in committees was a great experience for me. I thank all people, who organised it. Now I am looking forward to the National Session, which will take place in my native town Ivano-Frankivsk.
feedback
*
* - feedbacks were gathered by Nata Kalyn only from the participants of the 3rd InterRail mini-session in Ivano-Frankivsk (10-11th of September, 2012)
15
u n YP
E y k
c u L
r e mb Questions:
1. What is the most memorable EYP event of 2012 for you? Why? 2. What was the most pleasant/stressful EYP-session for you? 3. How did you celebrate New Year?
Olga Shvets 20 years old, studies Finance at Kyiv National Economic University Number of sessions attended: 8
1. Definitely Tallinn IS. Unlike autumn and spring International Sessions, to summer IS come only those, who decided to continue EYP. The spirit is so much different! For me it was a meeting point with my friends from all over Europe, whom I don’t see very often due to different reasons. 2. The most pleasant session for me was VinSpring. It was my first session in 2 years and the orgas managed to create not only the most exciting EYP session, but the best EYP session ever for me personally. 3. I started New Year with my family and then continued celebrating with my friends.
interviewer: Nataliia Kalyn
Aliona Vyshnevskaia 18 years old, studies International Relations at Lazarski University inWarsaw, PL Number of sessions attended: 5
1. The most memorable is my first session, because that was the most unforeseen one, but then Summer International Forums have opened the new aspects of EYP to me and introduced its best traditions; and for sure the journo experience in Latvia was a completely different perception of a session and left tons of memories and incentives for the future EYP involvement. 2. My very first EYP session - VinSpring NS 2012 was both of those. Never in my life before I met that many inspiring friendly people in such a short period of time. Although timidity and complete unawareness of what EYP is all about rang that nervous bell inside me. 3. It was like never before! All that truly matters is with whom to celebrate.
PEOPLE
cont
face
rol
interviewer: Alex Huzenko
Oleks an
W
dra G ipsh
hat was the craziest moment you’ve experienced together?
Ola: We met each other for the first time in our lives and went for swimming pool at night. After that we exchanged our jeans. And basically that’s how we became best friends. Valentina: The craziest moment would be when we first met at Balkan’s Forum. We went into the pool at night, freezing as hell, not giving a damn about anything else. We had a good laugh and after that night… the rest is history.
W
hat is she addicted to?
Ola: I would say that she is addicted to partying and being an awesome person. Valentina: She is addicted to having a freaking good time.
W
ho will she become in 20 years?
Ola: The same craziest person I’ve ever met and she will probably learn some more Russian to gossip around with and to watch “How I Met Your Mother” in awesome Russian translation Valentina: Definitely a powerful woman, hopefully still my friend and most importantly a person who is very determined, passionate about her job and with a bunch of millions in her account.
Valentina Marin
T
he best feature of her
Ola: Thinking in the same way and looking forward for crazy experience in our lives. And of course being an amazing friend, who is ready to listen my stories for 40 minutes and still being able to come up with helpful advice. Valentina: She’s got a whole lot of them, but I just have to mention her amazing eyes. Personality wise, I would say that she is a caring person and a good listener, which is what I really appreciate in her considering just how much I talk.
W
hat do you like the most about her?
Ola: Her “goldfish memory”. She is always forgetting small things. She will never forget the name of a guy I liked, but in the next second she will forget where she put her phone or bag. Valentina: Her brilliant sense of humor. The ‘if you know what I mean’ category might just be her specialty, but there are many more to add. I can honestly say that she can always bring a smile on my face and I love her for that.
A
guy from which country would she most likely to hook up with? Ola: For sure a guy from Russia. Valentina: Obvious one: Estonia.
17
Regional session of eyp-sweden Hassleholm, Sweden 17th-18th of November Kateryna Baskenova (Journalist) 10th national session of eyp-norwaY Oslo, Norway 71st international session of eyp 17th-19th of October Amsterdam, Netherlands Maria Hud (Jury Member) 2nd-11th of November Julia Pustovoitova, Tetiana Korniichuk, Lidiia Zhgyr, Ksenia Bochkareva, Uliana Furiv, Liza Aleksandrovych, Viktoria Movchan, Ilona Pavlyus (Delegates) Enterpreneurship summit Berlin, Germany 15th-18th of November Kateryna Opanasiuk, Seyran Aliev, Nataliia Tatarchuk, Olga Semaniuk, Anton Verkhovodov, Na25th anniversary of eyp taliia Kalyn, Julia Kudina, Volodymyr Soldatenko Fontainebleau, France (Participants) 5th-7th of October Anna Suprunenko, Anastasiia Ianovytska, Angelina Tarashevska, Lyubov Dvoretska, Maria Romanenko (Paticipants) 9th czech forum Litomysl, Czech Repubic management training 22nd-25th of November Paris, France Maria Shcherbak (Video Editor), Angelina Tarath nd 29 of November - 2 of December shevska (Journalist) Yegor Vlasenko (Trainee)
27th national session of eyp-portugal Lisbon, Portugal 14th-18th of November Roksolana Pidlasa (Chair)
18
13th national session of eyp-estonia Tallinn, Estonia 19th-23th of October Oleksandra Gipsh (Journalist), Yegor Vlasenko (Chair), Mike Rozhkov, Olena Yermakova, Anton Verhovodov (Delegates) KZRS regional session of eyp-latvia Iecava, Latvia 1st-3rd of November Olena Vyshnevska (Journalist), Iryna Garbuz (Chair), Viktoria Yashchuk (Delegate) 2nd national session of eyp-russia Moscow region, Russia 4th-8th of January Lyubov Dvoretska (Chair), Alex Guzenko (Journalist) LVRS regional session of eyp-latvia Riga, Latvia 4th-5th of January Mike Rozhkov, Roksolana Pidlasa (Chairs), Olena Yermakova (Delegate)
e n i a r k U – EYP travels abroad 12th national session of eyp-turkey Istanbul, Turkey 29th of November - 3rd of December Kateryna Baskenova (Chair)
19
EYP ABROAD
Nationals
Estonian Adventures started on the way to Tallinn, as we were driving through dark forests of Belarus and Latvia and running after the bus on the border. But after we finally arrived to the lovely country of Estonia and had a breakfast with marzipan chocolates and weird Estonian burgers, we were completely happy. After that we had a walk through the Old Town, enjoyed cozy narrow streets and the Medieval houses, tried fried almonds and weird but tasty Estonian cuisine (e.g.: a desert that consisted of kefir, jam, barley, peas and bread crops). The next day started with a long walk through Tallinn downtown. Then we arrived to the TV tower and filmed a message to EYP-UA on a broadcasting studio. After that we finally arrived to the session venue, which turned out to be a colorful and comfortable place. The Head-Organiser Karin-Liis Lahtmäe gave us a warm welcome personally. During the General Teambuilding we got to meet the CJO team, which consisted only of bright, nice and interesting people. In the evening we had a Halloween party in Tallinn botanical garden. Next morning good music on the school radio woke us up at 9:15 a.m. (might be the longest EYP sleep ever, even though we went to bed at 4:30). Committee Teambuilding was tough but fun as always. Energizers were the only thing keeping us
Photo by Alex Huzenko
alive as the rain was still pouring outside. Surprisingly, the desert for lunch was manka. And in the evening we enjoyed Game Night: session ninja game, dancing competition, two X-boxes, creepy Slenderman game, Alias and lots of other funny stuff. The next day evening we enjoyed Euroconcert in the City Opera House, where Mike Rozhkov sang “Ne pytay” accompanied by Anton Verkhovodov’s guitar, and Farewell party in a club in the Old Town. Eventually, all the roads in EYP lead to General Assembly, which this time was held in a museum at the airport. It was amazing to sit there and watch planes driving just outside the window. In the night, after a long row of goodbyes, exhausted, but still enthusiastic we headed for CJO farewell party, which was held in a cozy little café. When the party was over we enjoyed the lights of Tallinn at night while walking through the Old Town.
by Mike Rozhkov, Olena Yermakova
21
MSTE
Amsterdam International Session was something new. Not only for the delegates who took their chance to take part in IS for the first time. It was something new to every participant and for EYP in general. This session showed the world that EYP is not only about fun, cultural exchange and socializing, but is indeed a good platform for academic investigations and developing good, realistic and executable solutions. Everyone realized this far before the session even started. Chairs and orgas worked really hard to boost delegates’ research process by preparing profound and explicit overviews, demanding fact-sheets and position papers, sending reminders. From the very beginning we all were encouraged to do more than usual and be really well-prepared for our topics, later on this turned out to create a solid platform for future work. Committee work was brilliant. Just ask any person from any committee of this session and you will hear the same: profound, fierce, controversial, informative, enthusiastic and very fruitful. This is such a pleasure to start working on a resolution with people who actually know what they are talking about, and this is where we thanked chairs
22
and orgas for being a little pushy with academic preparation. Never have I ever had such an interesting committee work and such a good resolution at the end. Another advantage to the CW was brought by the experts. Those were people who actually were helping with making up committee topics, thus indeed interested in the final result and willing to share their knowledge and experience in the most efficient way. Experts gave a profound view on the problem, giving a new boost to the discussion. Some of them were helpful enough to give advice even beyond the few-hour time they were given by answering delegates’ e-mails and explaining the trickiest issues. All the abovementioned resulted in a resolution booklet full of brilliant ideas on how to tackle the most problematic issues of nowadays. Before GA started every resolution already had dozens of questions, several people ready for attack speeches and a committee eager to answer every word in order to defend their work, but another surprise had waited for us. This is where I take a short pause and tell you a little about journos. This time their work was completely different from what we usually see at EYP session. No
silly videos, no ridiculous articles, but a highlevel academic journalism, that’s what we got. Videos with delegates telling how to improve current situation and articles about current problems and their solutions reminded everyone of a serious purpose we all were there for: looking for ending the crisis. Those people were present for the most time of committee work and knew everything their committee knew. But unlike the delegates, who were getting ready to defend the result of their work, journalists were trying to generate even more debate and heat up the GA as much as possible. Everyone of them prepared an article criticizing their committee’s solutions. This “stab in a back” provoked more questions, attacks, and made everyone work even harder to defend what they belied in. Drawing a line under this story I’d like to repeat the words I began with: this session was something new. We always come back home with plenty of different feelings: satisfaction, PED, new impressions, inspiration, enthusiasm and many more. After this session we all had another strong feeling with us. A pride to be an EYP-er.
chuk i i n Kor a n a eti by T
EYP ABROAD
AM 201
Where do you imagine a perfect International Session of EYP? Even despite of my immense love to Kyiv and cherished International Session in 2014 there, I cannot imagine anything more fabulous than the International Session in Amsterdam, which happened in November 2012. You may ask, what was so special about it. I close my eyes and recur to the Boryspil Airport… November 1st 2012. The part of Ukrainian delegation is using the last opportunities of having cheep cell phone talks in Ukraine before boarding. The perfect journey meant nothing of what followed on: visa, which is expiring 1 day before the planned return to Ukraine; spilled cucumber pickle all over the suitcase; absence of a plastic card and, as a result, complete unfitness in Amsterdam Airport; a missed train; a night spent in a cold waiting room... All these mischances, like in good movies, served as a separation between the reality and those magic days in the capital of bikes, tulips and cheese. Have you ever been to the cottage village Eemhof, near Amsterdam? We had luck to spend 3 full days in this remote oasis of purity and calmness. Besides the traditional elements of Teambuilding we had lots of extra activities. First of all we had an opportunity to try ourselves in orienteering. Secondly, 2 days of relaxing in warm water of aqua park in the open
air under the cold Dutch sky brought a chill and plenty of memorable moments. Thirdly, the Silent Party after the Eurovillage was one of the most ridiculous occurrences I had ever been to, but only in the minutes when I was taking the headphones off. The spirit of exclusiveness was maintained in each moment of the session. For example, the Opening Ceremony was held in the ancient throne room Ridderzaal in the Hague, where we had an honour to be the guests of the Minister of Economy of the Netherlands. Gala Dinner was the generous gift to the participants from the session partner. Even the dress-code during this night was stricter than at the Opening Ceremony. The reason was that the Dinner was conducted in the Rijksmuseum – the national museum of the Netherlands. Thus, the young European beau monde aka delegates were having meals and drinking exclusive wines strolling along the paintings of Rembrandt. I strongly encourage you to visit this museum in April 2013, when it officially opens to the public. Beyond I have convinced that the Dutch is a frantic nation, I should note that they are good judges of party making. During 3 days of Committee work the active European youth was dazing the citizens shaking a bus to loud music straight in the streets on their way to the
venues. Those who were able to go out after dancing in a bus were going to the parties. A zest was added to them by the closeness which appeared between the delegates due to very small space in the clubs. Fortunately, the Farewell Party was held in a distant club in the city outskirts in a roomy… pavilion. Apocalypse was the theme of the night and it allowed us to feel ourselves the last ones of the genus Homo, surrounded by zombies in a murky uninhabited industrial district in cold rainy Dutch weather. Only the best music, touchy farewell spirit and the catching fire show by Viktoria Movchan were warming our blood. And yet, bravo to Mark Brakel and his team for creating this miracle for us (and themselves, of course)! Bravo to this wonderful country, which, though making pity surprises by its weather all the time, has become the wonderland to more than 300 of foreigners and me personally. And finally, bravo to the Ukrainian ladies, who were participating in the session together with me and made me proud of being a team with them. Nevertheless we were close to losing our minds of Amsterdam, work and parties, we have completed this challenge with dignity. And we will definitely come back to complete it once again. And again…
r hgy Z a idii by L
23
Entrepreneurship
Summit
“I
t would be great, if you came up with some ideas. If not – at least you would enjoy Berlin” – these introductory words from the Executive Director of BMW Foundation perfectly corresponded to our feelings. 24 EYPers from all over the Europe gathered in Berlin to come up with business ideas around EYP. “Land of entrepreneurs”, Ukraine was represented by 8(!) participants, including Alumni, Leadership members and fresh ones: Katia Opanasiuk, Vova Soldatenko, Nata Kalyn, Anton Verkhovodov, Nata Tatarchuk, Seyran
24
Aliyev, Olia Semaniuk. We all came to Sophienstrasse 28-29, having quite scarce understanding of our actual goals and knowing nothing about working concept. First working morning was dedicated to a lecture by Prof. Faltin, who established a nowadays leading Darjeeling tea exporter in the world, being inspired by Ford and d i s a p pointed by Economics course at the university. And then the work began: Simon and
by Anton Verkhovodov
Florian, the coaches, hit the gong leaving all the EYPers excited about this new technic of time-keeping. A lot of different tactics were used to develop our business models: 6-3-5 Brainwriting, Magic Round Table, Sightlines, Speed Pitching. 2,5 days of working were successful: EYPTripadvisor, EYP Alumni App, EYP Café, EYP Fest, EYP Magazine, EYP recruiting agency, EYP Consulting, EYP Marketing Research Busi-
ness Support Whatever GmBH (by EYPUkraine team) – that is not complete list of business ideas created during the Summit. And free time was successful as well: German, American and Span ish cuisines, USSR Bar, freezing Sightseeing Tour through Berlin guided mostly by me and Moldovan and Armenian guys singing “Не Питай” with Ukrainians – that was pure awesomeness. It was not a regular EYP event: neither the working methods, nor the spirit were usual. All the participants had a feeling creating something unique and useful. That is what is
by Kateryna Baskenova
EYP ABROAD
Regionals
Swedish I was invited to the session 2 weeks before the beginning. I received passport with visa 2 days before the session. I bought tickets one day before the session. It sounds crazy. It actually was crazy! Even though I didn’t have time to prepare properly, I managed to write a topic article beforehand. I was a journo at the session. It was my first experience of being a part of media team and I enjoyed it.
The benefits are that you don’t have a schedule. You have a deadline and it gives you freedom. Moreover I love taking pictures so I was happy when it appears to be one of the journalist’s responsibilities. We had a lovely media team. All people were from different countries so diversity was our advantage. Though there were just 4 journalists we managed to write enough articles for 3 issues. We are also very proud that our
welcoming issue consisted of 26 pages. The whole atmosphere of the session was very cozy and comfortable. The session lasted for 2 days. Chairs had to manage to have teambuilding, committee work, resolution writing on the 1st day and General Assembly on the second day. I want to send a huge thanks to lovely organizers who were doing their best in order to provide us with everything needed.
This issue was brought to you by Editor/Layout Designer Maria Shcherbak Journalists Maria Romanenko, Nazar Zhovtovskyi, Olena Yermakova, Uliana Furiv, Alex Huzenko, Lidiia Zhgyr, Nataliia Kalyn, Mike Rozhkov, Kateryna
Baskenova, Anton Verkhovodov, Tetiana Korniichuk Proofreaders Tetiana Korniichuk, Iryna Garbuz, Anna Suprunenko Photographers Oleksii Prylipka, Alex Huzenko
Letters to the Editor 8megalomania@gmail.com Tel: +380-93-509-71-72
25