“Shokkin Kamp: Leaders’ Academy” was a solidarity project organized by LEADER members of Shokkin Group in 2026 that aimed to provide young people in Estonia with engaging non-formal learning experiences to foster personal growth, active citizenship, and social inclusion.
Through three themed camps, young people aged 14-19 explored arts & creativity, self-expression and well-being while practicing key skills like teamwork, communication, and project planning. Here are the impressions from some of the team members involved:
“Overall, organizing Shokin Camp was a valuable experience, although some parts were more enjoyable than others. I especially enjoyed the first camp, where I felt comfortable working with my teammates and connecting with the participants. During the third camp, busy schedules and difficulties within the team made it harder to feel involved, but we still managed to complete the project successfully. The experience helped me build organizational skills and feel more confident in my ability to plan and run youth events. It also showed me how much a supportive team matters to my motivation and enjoyment of the work.
I learned that clear deadlines help me organize my time and make steady progress, even when my motivation is low. Feeling included and being able to rely on my teammates can be just as important as the topic of the project. I also learned that previous experience can help me adapt when preparation is limited.
I think the project benefited young people by giving them a relaxed space to meet others, learn new things, and take part in activities together. The team-building activities gave them opportunities to practise communication and cooperation. I also think it contributed to the community by bringing young people together and encouraging them to get involved in local youth activities.
Maryna Zhyrna
“I think it was a nice way to bring youth together. It was a nice experience to see behind the curtains, I am overall very glad I took apart in this experience.
I learnt that I need to plan my time better and how to speak more confidently. I also gathered ideas for energizers and activities I can use in future projects. I’ll definitely use what I learnt here in my daily life.
I saw that the participants find new friends and get new motivation to join the activities in the future.”
Elisabeth Tomingas
“It was fun! Sometimes it was difficult and stressful because of the tight deadlines, but it was always interesting and exciting. We organized two really cool camps, and I’m proud of the results, even though there were some mistakes and learning points.
You can solve any problem if you stay calm and positive. Sometimes it’s better to ask for advice from people with more experience instead of reinventing the wheel. Good teamwork is the key to success. I will definitely pay more attention to building good relationships within the team at the beginning of any project. I will try to ask more experienced colleagues for advice more often, and I will remember that a positive attitude can help solve any problem.
I learned a lot of practical skills: finding a venue that fits the budget, communicating with the venue about organizational matters, planning and managing the project budget, organizing group logistics…
The project gave young people the opportunity to learn new skills and gain valuable experience. They can use these skills in their local communities and future projects. The project also helped participants build new connections, share ideas, and learn from each other. I believe it will encourage them to become more active in their communities.“
Elizaveta Galiakberova
“I felt really pleased because I didn’t feel much pressure on the organizational side. Sometimes it was really hard to organise things but we had each others back and helped each other when we needed.
I realized that communication in the team is the key. Also time management is very important and with poor timing it’s sometimes really hard to organize things. It also taught us how to do as much as possible with limited budget, which also helped. Now I have much more developed skills and knowledge to use in my studies and continue growing in youth project development sphere.
The project really benefited young people. I think that the topic of well being in our society is a much needed one. I believe that it’s better to teach the youth on how to control yourself now, rather than later in their life.”
Kristian Heidmets
