Teachers celebrated for their support of Slovakian young people

More than 250 people in the Slovakian Award family gathered last week to celebrate teachers for their dedication to the development of young people.  

Attendees of the ‘Meet DofE Day 2023’ event in Piešt’any, Slovakia, gathered to share their experiences of working with the Award and young people.

They discussed topical issues and youth projects, such as Stand By Me, a ground-breaking partnership which sees the Award in Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Romania partner with UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, to provide vital support to young people who have been displaced or impacted by the war in Ukraine.  

The day was dedicated to teachers, and in particular female teachers, as a thank you for their persistent work and help in the development of Slovakian youth.

Many teachers volunteer as Award Leaders in schools, and one in particular was touched to receive such recognition.  

Thank you. Today made me feel important after a long time.

The event kicked off with a special musical performance by Sona Kmet and Tomas Gulán, of a new song, ‘Kid of Today’. Award Programme Managers for Central and Eastern Slovakia, Miška and Janko, as well as DofE Slovakia Director, Miloš Ondrášik opened the day’s proceedings, with the British Ambassador for Slovakia, Nigel Baker, also welcoming attendees. 

Guests took part in special interactive lectures on the topic of ‘Youth of Today’, hosted by Doctor Krause and Dr. Radka Čopková, and shared their experiences of working with the Award, and young people, across the course of this very special celebration. 

The day was a huge success, with everyone leaving feeling energised and passionate to continue their work with Slovakian young people.

Photography: Matúš Koprda