On August 20-21 of 2026, YMCA Generation Next underwent an evaluation workshop as part of the project’s external evaluation process to determine the merit, worth, and value of the initiative and identify recommendations for its future implementation.

The first day commenced with an opening session at the iconic Frauenkirche in Dresden by welcoming participants, going over the planned two days ahead. Then guided by Andreas Dieterich, the Officer for Peace and Reconciliation Work at Frauenkirche Dresden Foundation, the participants had a tour of the church learning more about its history and symbolism.

Then the real work started in the form of a focus group workshop with all the 20 Generation Next Scholarship holders from Armenia and Georgia. The process is led by Hana Bendova, a consultant and evaluator with 12 years of experience in conducting external evaluations with a background in civil society strengthening, international development, and youth-led initiatives. 

“The evaluation process was very reflective for us. We were fully engaged in the discussion,” remarked Svetlana Levin, one of the Generation Next Scholarship holders from Georgia. 

The second day continued with focusing on generating ideas for local community projects in Armenia and Georgia as part of the project requirements, followed by a professional video shoot of each participant reflecting on their journey with the Generation Next. 

“The video shoot was nerve-wracking but also a very enjoyable experience,” said Kristine Hovsepyan, one of the Generation Next Scholarship holders from Armenia. 

Overall, the evaluation workshop provided a unique opportunity for participants to reflect on their time with the Generation Next project and for the organizing team to have a wider look at a  bigger picture, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the program, pinpointing areas for improvement, and learning about students’ project ideas for future discussion and implementation.