Seventeen-year-old Antonina, an aspiring musician, understands the profound impact of creativity on mental well-being. Through her involvement in the UPSHIFT youth innovation program, facilitated by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Antonina and her friends are empowering young people in Ukraine to harness the therapeutic benefits of artistic expression.
UPSHIFT provided Antonina, along with her friends Alyona, Anastasia, and Lilya, with the necessary training, mentoring, and resources to organize creative events for youth aged 14 to 24 in Balta, Odeska region.
The ‘4You’ team, led by Antonina, orchestrated a series of activities including music and film nights, where participants engaged in painting, singing, music appreciation, and film discussions. Additionally, they established a communication club, connecting young people affected by the ongoing conflict with psychologists for individual counseling sessions.
Antonina remarks, “After the group meetings, several members of our club turned for individual counseling to a psychologist. This shows the importance of our project. We have managed to show young people that it is normal to seek help. Taking care of your mental health improves your quality of life.”
Since its inception, the ‘4You’ team has successfully reached over 500 young adults. Their future plans include expanding their initiatives with art therapy sessions and psychologist-led meetings for youth in their community.
Antonina reflects on her UPSHIFT experience, stating, “UPSHIFT helped each team member to better recognize their strengths. Personally, I’ve discovered how much I enjoy connecting with others and making them happy. Before the program, a small problem could have thrown me off track. Now, despite the obstacles, I’m confident in finishing tasks.”
Antonina’s UPSHIFT project, supported by the ‘Zadzerkallia’ NGO, aligns with the nationwide mental health program ‘How are you?’, led by Ukraine’s First Lady, Olena Zelenska. Expert guidance from the Coordination Center of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine and financial support from UNICEF and the Government of Japan further bolstered the initiative.
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