First steps in the field of the Youth work for the team

On 6th of December 2024, the team of Youth Center – Asenovgrad held its first non-formal activity with 9th-grade students at PGHVT “Dimitri Solunski” – Asenovgrad. The training topic was tolerance, focusing on how understanding and accepting differences improve communication and the classroom environment.

The session began with a short brainstorm: the word “tolerance” was written on the board and participants shared their own associations and everyday situations where the concept clearly appears. This helped map out the themes most relevant to the ninth-graders.

We then moved to getting to know each other through personal goals and attitudes: each participant briefly presented what “respect for difference” means to them and how they would like it to look in their class/school. This exchange linked general principles of tolerance to individual experience.

As an energizer, we used a brief role-play with “labels”. One participant took on a role (e.g., a person in a vulnerable situation, a new student, someone from a different cultural background), and others interacted according to the description. The task was to recognize the situation and discuss how language, attitudes, and assumptions affect the person on the receiving end.

In the core activity, we explored “What is tolerance?” through spoken examples and hypothetical scenarios described by the facilitators (instead of working with photos or other visual stimuli). We discussed common biases, how to distinguish fact from assumption, and how to reframe reactions in more respectful and supportive ways. We followed clear dialogue rules: listening, not interrupting, and avoiding judgmental language.

We wrapped up with summary and reflection: “What did you learn today?” and “How would you react next time in a similar situation?” This captured both new knowledge and shifts in attitudes.

The students were active throughout the session—they shared, proposed solutions, and defended positions while respecting differing opinions. The training strengthened listening and empathy, encouraged critical thinking, and provided practical tools for a more tolerant classroom community—not just as knowledge, but as everyday practice.

Youth Center – Asenovgrad thanks the leadership and staff of PGHVT “Dimitri Solunski” for their support and hosting, as well as all 9th-grade students for their active participation and responsible attitude. This training is the first non-formal activity of the Center in 2024, and the experience gained will serve as a basis for future formats that foster respect, inclusion, and constructive dialogue in the school environment.