The initiative was carried out by Marija Kastratović and Martin Tomaševski, with the support of mentor Simona, in cooperation with the Municipality of Dojran and Primary School “Kocho Racin.” The activities took place on 31.01.2026 at the primary school in the village of Nikolić, with the participation of 19 children aged 6–9.

What was implemented?

The event began with an energetic outdoor game, followed by a creative classroom workshop. The children were divided into two groups and tasked with drawing a “sad” planet and a “happy” planet. Through their drawings and discussion, they talked about pollution, nature protection, saving water and electricity, as well as the forest fire that affected the village the previous year.

In addition to the educational part, the children were provided with warm hamburgers and educational games as gifts – a small but meaningful gesture for children coming from families with low socio-economic status.

Results and Impact

✅ Increased environmental awareness among children about pollution and their role in protecting nature and the lake.

✅ Encouraged emotional expression and a sense of community through creative work and open discussion.

✅ Strengthened communication and empathy among students, who felt heard and valued.

The children clearly expressed what they had learned – that waste should not be thrown everywhere, that resources must be used carefully, and that everyone can contribute to a cleaner and more beautiful environment.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

One of the challenges was maintaining the attention of the youngest participants, as well as addressing different levels of prior knowledge. However, through an interactive approach, drawing, and discussion, these challenges were successfully overcome.

The process showed that children learn best through practical and creative activities, and their sincerity and awareness of local environmental issues remind us that real change begins with the youngest generation.

This initiative confirms that when children are given space to think, create, and speak, they become small but powerful guardians of nature – and carriers of a greener future. 🌍💚

The initiative was implemented within the project “ZZZ – Together for Green Advocacy for Environmental Protection,” funded by the Government of Switzerland through the Civica Mobilitas program, and carried out by the Center for Youth Activism KRIK, the Center for Social Initiatives “Nadez,” and the Association of Social Workers of Macedonia – ZSRM.