In September 2024, Association Follow Me organized a deeply meaningful focus group with refugee children in Secondary School “Stefan Karadzha” in Varna, Bulgaria. This was an important milestone in shaping our 12-Module Integration Program as part of the Safe Spaces project.
Our team, including two psychologists and one professional trainer, was there to present the program, create a welcoming environment and listen closely to the voices of the young participants. Their insights, emotions and honesty brought the content to life in powerful ways.
The young people explored the full range of the modules and engaged actively with them, offering valuable feedback and suggestions, while also sharing personal stories of resilience, adaptation and hope. They explored essential topics such as access to healthcare and social services, individual goal setting, mental health, community belonging, education, employment, housing and legal support. The session encouraged open dialogue and the children responded with valuable feedback, personal insights and powerful stories drawn from their own journeys. Their reflections highlighted the importance of cultural sensitivity, emotional support and practical tools that truly reflect their day-to-day realities. Many shared how meaningful it felt to be included in shaping a program designed for their needs and several emphasized how themes like identity, well-being and opportunity resonated deeply with them. Their feedback helped us ensure that the modules are not only informative but also practical, empathetic and empowering.
One participant shared: “It helps just to know someone understands what it’s like and that this is made for people like us.”
This focus group was more than an evaluation, it was a shared moment of connection, trust and learning. It reaffirmed our belief that true impact begins with listening and that the voices of young people must be central in shaping any support framework intended for them.
We are deeply grateful to all participants and to Secondary School “Stefan Karadzha” for hosting us so warmly. As we finalize the modules, these voices will continue to guide and inspire our work – toward creating safer, more inclusive spaces for youth across Europe.