Youth Think tank took place at the VMU Ukrainian Centre in Vilnius

On the 22nd of  November, 2024, another Youth Think tank took place at the VMU Ukrainian Centre in Vilnius. This is a British Council-supported initiative which brings together Ukrainian and Lithuanian youth to engage them in meaningful discussions. The Youth Think tank connects Ukrainian and Lithuanian youth with high-ranking officials and experts from various fields, creating a platform for meaningful exchange and hands-on learning about European values. Past speakers include prominent politicians, ambassadors, CEOs, a NASA astronaut, and other influential figures. This programme not only lays a solid foundation for the European values, but also strengthens the ties between young people in Ukraine and Lithuania, encouraging them to share their views, forge friendships and create a positive narrative across both communities.

This time, young Ukrainians and Lithuanians in Vilnius had the opportunity to take part in a discussion entitled “Women’s contribution to international security”. The audience had the honour to meet Ms. Jeanette Sautner, the Ambassador of Canada, and Ms. Liz Boyles, the Ambassador of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and to hear about their personal paths to diplomatic careers, their professional experience in the field of European and global security, and learn about their strong position on gender equality and equal opportunities. The lively discussion was moderated by Vilma Bijeikienė, the Vice-Rector for Communication at VMU, and graciously opened by the Ambassador of Ukraine Petro Beshta. The 40+ students could barely fit in the room, while their courageous questions and comments were truly thought-provoking and engaging to further discuss the most pressing questions for today’s youth – those of the future, security, career prospects, democratic values and freedom.

Briefly about VMU Ukrainian centre

The Ukrainian Centre in Vilnius, established under the patronage of the First Ladies of Lithuania and Ukraine, is the first project of this scale in the EU. The Centre supports Ukrainians in preserving their identity, culture, and language, while fostering connections with Lithuanians and helping displaced Ukrainians adapt to life in Lithuania. The Centre offers non-formal education, cultural, psychosocial services, etc.