How Did Sarajevo and Banja Luka Youth Strengthen Self-Confidence and Personal Safety?

In celebration of this month’s Orange Day, the Institute for Youth Development KULT organized workshops titled “Boosting Self-Confidence and Personal Safety” in Sarajevo and Banja Luka.

The Institute for Youth Development KULT has been addressing the issue of violence against women and girls for years and celebrates Orange Day – Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls every month. The Institute for Youth Development KULT uses different campaigns and activities to draw attention to violence against women and girls, educate youth on how to report and prevent violence and advocate for best solutions to address and eliminate violence against women and girls.

The Institute’s intention behind these workshops was to help young people strengthen their self-confidence, learn about personal safety and violence prevention, and understand the crucial role of confidence and personal safety in combating violence. Participants explored their personal values and learned how to identify and mitigate risks in everyday situations. Workshops included positive affirmations, discussions, and practical advice. The workshop participants explored topics such as passive, assertive, and aggressive behavior, reactions to fear, and the drama triangle, which helped them better understand the roles of victim, persecutor, and rescuer.

Participants left the workshops with new acquaintances, positive experiences, and valuable insights about themselves and those around them: “The workshop introduced me to open-minded people, and I definitely walked away with something new. It was a great experience; I appreciated the trainer’s approach, and I’m glad we bonded as a group and were willing to engage in all the exercises,” said one of the participants.

These activities motivated participants to work together on creating a safe environment and empowered them to be proactive in preventing violence and fostering a culture of zero tolerance for violence against women and girls.

The workshops were led by Nataša Pivašević, a psychologist and Transactional Analysis consultant in training.

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