This is the story of 15-year-old Marina, a teenager with internally displaced person (IDP) status who attends the “SviTY” space in Cherkasy. Marina is a girl with a sharp mind, inner confidence, and strength. It is important for her to be taken seriously, to be heard, and to have her intellect recognized. This is a story about how, where there is trust and safety, a teenager is not afraid to be their true self.
Marina studies at home, which gives her freedom and plenty of time, but at the same time limits her opportunities for in-person interaction with peers. She lacked an environment where she could exchange ideas, engage in discussions, and connect with others — something that is difficult to find outside of school. Communication with peers is not always easy: she speaks directly and honestly, which can sometimes create barriers, and with new acquaintances it is not always clear how to start.
How “SviTY” Became a Place to Be Herself
At first, Marina was not looking for close friendships or rapid changes. What she needed was a space where she could be among peers without feeling out of place. In “SviTY,” her intellect and worldview became a value and a resource for shared ideas and activities. Here, she is heard and understood.
Gradually, Marina began to discover and develop her strengths and became more attentive to emotions — both her own and those of others. She learned to find common ground, listen to others, and express her own thoughts. Each meeting at “SviTY” gives her more confidence and comfort in communication.
Today, Marina has a circle of people she feels comfortable with. They spend time together, communicate, and generate new ideas — and she can remain herself without the need to adapt. She actively participates in creative workshops, sessions with a psychologist, and quizzes, and she also enjoys decorating the space before holidays, bringing her creativity and vision into it. Marina has found a place where she can learn communication without pressure — at her own pace, while being herself.
