On November 1–2, 2025, Vivere Kool in Tallinn became a center of creativity, learning, and teamwork as Shokkin Group Estonia organized the Digiwise Board Game Jam.
Starting at 09:00 on November 1st and ending at 19:00 on November 2nd with teams presenting their games to the jury, this two-day event invited participants to design their own board games on the themes of Online Safety and Media Literacy.
The event brought together 48 participants, divided into 13 teams (7 focused on Online Safety and 6 on Media Literacy). In addition, an organizing team of 15 people, consisting of mentors, helpers, and facilitators, provided support throughout the entire event. From the moment participants stepped into the warm and friendly atmosphere of Vivere Kool, they were welcomed with energizing games, creative challenges, snacks, and guidance.
The event began with an opening speech by Maia Klaassen from the Baltic Engagement Centre for Combating Information Disorders (BECID) and the University of Tartu, who shared inspiring insights on combating misinformation and protecting personal data. Afterwards, the four subtopics for games to address were revealed: Cognitive Biases, Manipulation Techniques, Data Protection, and Cyberbullying.
Following this session, Pavel Vassiljev led a hands-on game design workshop on game mechanics and the process of transforming an idea into a game. This workshop served as an excellent foundation for participants to develop their game ideas and start creating their own prototypes.
Throughout the weekend, participants worked in small teams, transforming abstract digital challenges into fun and thought-provoking board games with the support of six mentors specialized in game mechanics, visual design, and storytelling. The atmosphere was both productive and enjoyable, filled with energizers, reflection moments, and plenty of coffee breaks.
On Sunday afternoon, all 13 teams presented their game prototypes to a three-member jury. A wide variety of game ideas were showcased, ranging from cooperative puzzles to strategy-based games. In total, four teams were announced as winners: two for the Best Online Safety Game and two for the Best Media Literacy Game.
In November, winning teams will have access to dedicated mentorship sessions to continue developing their game prototypes, and later in December will present their games to a wider audience at the “Critical Thinkers game marathon” in Narva.
As always, the event concluded with cake, applause, and a big group photo. Digiwise Jam was not only about creating games, but it also helped young people strengthen their critical thinking skills, collaborate effectively, and turn digital awareness into a creative tool for change.
