UPSHIFT, PODIUM,
PONDER,
TECHSTITUTION
The UPSHIFT – Social Impact Program, developed in partnership with UNICEF, is a transformative workshop designed to equip young people with the skills and confidence to tackle social challenges in their communities. Through hands-on learning, participants identify pressing local issues, develop innovative solutions, and implement their ideas with the support of mentorship and funding. UPSHIFT empowers young people to become changemakers, fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship with a social impact. Since 2019, this program has been implemented in Innovation Hubs in Gjilan and Lipjan, helping over 1,400 students gain critical 21st-century skills.
The PODIUM – Advocacy for Change Program, a key part of our partnership with UNICEF, inspires young people to become advocates for positive change in their communities. Participants learn essential advocacy skills, from identifying community issues to designing and implementing impactful campaigns.PODIUM fosters a sense of agency among students, equipping them to amplify their voices and address social challenges. Delivered in Gjilan and Lipjan since 2019, this program has enabled youth to make a lasting impact in their communities.
PONDER – Critical Media Literacy Program In an age of information overload, critical thinking is essential. PONDER equips young people with the skills to navigate today’s complex media landscape, teaching them to recognize bias, analyze content, and engage with media in a thoughtful, responsible manner. In an era where misinformation spreads rapidly, media literacy is not just a skill—it’s a necessity. Thousands of students have participated in PONDER, gaining the ability to discern fact from fiction, challenge narratives, and become more informed digital citizens.
TECHSTITUTION – Bridging Technology and Institutional Change Innovation thrives at the intersection of technology and governance. Through TECHSTITUTION, young visionaries explore how technology can enhance institutional efficiency and drive societal progress. This workshop brings together bright minds to develop tech-driven solutions that address public and private sector challenges. Over two editions, TECHSTITUTION has engaged more than 80 young participants, encouraging collaboration, creativity, and forward-thinking problem-solving. By leveraging the power of technology, this initiative envisions a future where institutions are more responsive, efficient, and equipped to meet the evolving needs of society.
Together, these programs form a comprehensive framework for youth empowerment.
GENERATION NEXT PROJECTS
Scroll Right
