What happens when you bring together diverse young people to live, learn, and lead side by side for a whole week?

At YMCA Boyarka, this question found its answer during the summer camp Youth Matters Camp – a week full of growth, friendship, and hope.

The stationary camp gathered different youth from Boyarka community. Each of them came with their own story, yet shared the same desire – to develop as leaders, to make new connections, and to experience a sense of belonging that YMCA creates.

Throughout the week, participants took part in leadership exercises, team-building challenges, and creative workshops that encouraged communication, responsibility and empathy. Every activity was designed to empower young people to discover their strengths and to believe that their voices truly matter.

The camp took place in a peaceful natural setting, surrounded by mountains and fresh air – a much-needed space of calm in times when many Ukrainian young people live under the constant pressure of war.

For many participants, Youth Matters Camp became a place to rest from daily stress and frequent shelling, to finally sleep peacefully, and to simply be themselves again.

> “Of all the camps I’ve ever been to, this one is the best”

> “I didn’t even have time to look at my phone”

> “This was the highlight of my summer”

Beyond the games, hiking, and campfires, Youth Matters Camp reminded everyone that leadership starts with connection with others, with nature, and with ourselves.

At YMCA Boyarka, Youth Matters Camp was not just a summer program. It was a space of safety, inspiration, and the belief that young people matter – today, and for the future of Ukraine.