CBM had the pleasure of hosting an informative and interactive meeting with students from the European Master’s Programme in Human Rights and Democratization in Vienna. During the meeting, we presented CBM’s mission, objectives, and ongoing activities, followed by an open discussion on the context, challenges, and CBM’s way of work. The students showed strong interest in civic engagement and the opportunities our organization offers for active involvement in the community.
We thank all participants for their curiosity, thoughtful questions, and interest in visiting CBM.
As part of the project “Fostering Interethnic Cooperation and Civic Engagement among Youth,” a group of young people we work with chose to organize a meaningful community activity during the holiday season. Guided by their own ideas and values, the youngsters decided to deliver Christmas presents to the beneficiaries of the Podrzi me ( “Support Me” Center), which works with children and youth with developmental disabilities. Through this initiative, they aimed to bring joy, warmth, and a sense of inclusion to those who are too often left at the margins of society. This activity showcases the spirit of empathy and shows how young people can actively contribute to their communities when given space and trust. We thank the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) for supporting this project and making youth-led community initiatives like this possible.
Wrapping Up ‘Critical Voices: Media Literacy for Resilient Youth in Mitrovica’
We gathered our workshop participants for a final reflection sharing what they learned and how their view on media has grown.
Together with journalists Jelena Cvetanović and Daniela Tomasevic (Radio Kontakt Plus), we revisited how the youth now question sources, spot misinformation, and recognize bias with way more confidence.
Today we are closing an important five-year chapter of the partnership between CBM and PeaceNexus. Throughout these years we’ve received exceptional support and guidance from Peace Nexus, which has helped us grow as an organisation and work with more clarity, resilience and professionalism.
The second information session for the open call for volunteerism grants was held at the EU Info House in North Mitrovica, bringing together civil society representatives and activists. Participants were introduced to the program’s objectives, opportunities to support volunteerism and civic engagement, and the application process. Teams from KCSF and Community Building Mitrovica (CBM) presented the main criteria and procedures, answered questions, and offered practical guidance to interested organizations and initiatives.
We wrapped up the final two Media Literacy Workshops for Youth, led by experienced journalist Jelena Cvetanović from Radio Kontakt Plus. Throughout the sessions, participants deepened their understanding of how information is created, shared, and interpreted, combining theory and practical exercises to strengthen their critical thinking skills. The discussions focused on the importance of credible sources, the impact of misinformation, and how media literacy plays a crucial role in our complex local context, where trust and accuracy matter more than ever. By learning how to critically assess information and identify bias, these workshops helped participants become less vulnerable to manipulation and false narratives, fostering a generation that can think independently and make informed decisions.
As part of its ongoing activities, CBM organized an inclusive sports-based initiative that brought together young people from diverse ethnic backgrounds, creating a safe and welcoming space for connection and interaction. The activity ensured equal opportunities for all participants and actively promoted interethnic cooperation through sport. Participants were introduced to the basics of archery, including proper stance, targeting techniques, and the importance of focus and patience. Throughout the sessions, strong emphasis was placed on teamwork, encouragement, and mutual support. The activity also included a friendly competition, highlighting both individual skills and collaboration. The initiative concluded by recognizing strong performances and reinforcing key values such as cooperation, mutual respect, and equality through sport.
The Main Bridge in Mitrovica was transformed into a space of connection and shared joy. Through the collaboration between Cuisine sans Frontières and Community Building Mitrovica, around 20 young people from different ethnic communities came together to prepare traditional dishes from their family kitchens. From savory pies and fresh salads to grilled meats, seasonal fruits, and homemade desserts, the gathering became a celebration of culture, community, and togetherness. Later, more than 50 additional young people joined for dinner, and over 100 people in total took part in the event, including families, neighbors, civil society representatives, and passersby, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. The event served as a simple yet powerful reminder that food can bring people together, encourage dialogue, and foster mutual understanding. By turning the bridge into a place of unity, this youth-led initiative demonstrated how small moments of connection can help bridge even the deepest divides. A sincere thank you to everyone who participated, supported, and documented this meaningful gathering.
As part of its youth empowerment efforts, CBM implemented the training “Fundamentals of Digital Marketing,” facilitated by Ardita Krasniqi, with the participation of 10 young people. Over the course of five days, participants gained practical knowledge in creating engaging digital content, designing visuals using Canva, managing Facebook and Instagram pages, running online advertisements, improving SEO, and using Google Business Profile to strengthen the online presence of businesses. The training combined theory with practice, as each participant developed an imaginary business idea, allowing them to apply newly acquired skills in a hands-on way. This approach equipped participants with valuable competencies and increased their readiness for future opportunities in the field of digital marketing.
An Introductory Information Session on the Civil Society Resource Center in Kosovo was held at the Center for Civil Energy in North Mitrovica, as part of the Resource Center initiative implemented in partnership with KCSF. Local CSOs and activists learned about the Center’s mission and services, including access to information and resources, support for policy engagement, capacity development, networking opportunities, and civic activism initiatives. The discussion focused on tailoring support to the real needs of civil society across Kosovo to ensure meaningful and impactful assistance.
NED Camp “Youth Impact” gathered young people from different communities in Brezovica from October 3–5, 2025, to strengthen their skills in designing and implementing community-focused initiatives. Throughout the three-day camp, participants engaged in interactive workshops and teamwork exercises designed to help them understand how to identify community challenges, develop strategic actions, and transform their ideas into impactful youth led campaigns. The program helped them gain practical experience in advocacy, communication, and collective problem-solving. By the end of the camp, the young participants developed concrete campaign concepts addressing issues they found most pressing for youth in Kosovo — including the need for stronger mental health support, environmental protection, prevention of bullying, and advocacy for creating accessible sports spaces. Beyond learning and planning, the camp also provided a space for young people from different backgrounds to connect, collaborate, and discover the power of joint action in driving positive change in their communities
We gathered 23 young people from North and South Mitrovica, Leposavic,
and Zvecan for a series of media literacy and journalism workshops held in partnership with Radio Kontakt Plus. Over the weekend, participants explored key topics including the foundations of the media system, ethical journalism, bias in reporting, and the impact of social media. Through a mix of theory and hands-on exercises led by experienced journalists Daniela Tomasević and Jelena Cvetanović, the sessions helped youth understand how media structures shape public opinion, how to identify bias, and how to apply ethical standards in reporting. The workshops also introduced participants to the challenges of false news and disinformation, teaching
them to distinguish credible sources from misleading content and to think critically about the information they consume.
As a follow-up to the Civic Education School, CBM organized the Alumni Event, bringing together students from South and North Mitrovica from different communities. The first day of the camp was dedicated to introductory activities through games, conversations, and group work, which helped students get to know each other better. On the second day, sociologist Ramadan Beshiri led a session on “Deviant Behavior and Multiculturalism,” encouraging in-depth and reflective discussions. Students also exchanged handwritten positive messages placed in personal envelopes as a way to encourage one another and strengthen a sense of community. The first two days concluded with group activities that promoted creativity, connection, and a sense of belonging beyond social and cultural differences.
CBM continues to hold meetings with representatives of civil society and youth from South and North Mitrovica. During the meeting, representatives of civil society organizations and youngsters shared their experiences regarding the work they are doing for the benefit of the community, the challenges they face, and their plans for the rest of the year. The youth participants also presented ideasand activities that were initiated by themselves and supported by CBM. One of the main discussion points was the idea of a joint activity between the youth and the participating organizations, REC, Së Bashku, and Handikos, focusing on environmental care and raising awareness about its preservation.
We had the pleasure of welcoming representatives from the Swiss Embassy to CBM. As Sarah Jaqueiry concludes her mission in Kosovo, she visited CBM together with her successor, Julia Agosti, to ensure a smooth transition and to support Julia as she steps into her new role. During the meeting, we reflected on our successful cooperation with the Swiss Embassy, highlighted CBM’s outreach methodology in the complex context of Kosovo particularly in Mitrovica, and explored opportunities for strengthening our future partnership.
As part of its continued support for youth-led initiatives developed through CBM’s project writing training, another creative idea came to life this time on the basketball court in Mitrovica north! Young activists, Rona and Adea recently organized a basketball activity titled “Together on the Court” , where participants had the chance to learn the basics of the game and connect through sport. The session was supported by local basketball professional Drilon Hajrizi, who helped guide the activity and share practical tips. This initiative reflects the enthusiasm and creativity of young people who are turning their ideas into meaningful actions that bring communities together. This activity is implemented within the framework of the “Resilient and Inclusive Communities Program” , supported by the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund
Youth from Mitrovica, as part of #NED-supported project “Fostering Interethnic
Cooperation and Civic Engagement among Youth”, came together to conduct youth impact advocacy activity by marking the International Day against Femicide. Through discussions on gender-based violence and alarming femicide statistics, they raised their voices in solidarity. The activity ended with public messages and the
symbolic creation of red ribbons and bracelets – honoring the women whose lives were taken while at the same time celebrating the resilience and strength of women in our society.
This activity is part of the NED-supported project: “Fostering Interethnic Cooperation and
Civic Engagement among Youth’’
As part of the project Fostering Interethnic Cooperation and Civic Engagement Among Youth, supported by NED, CBM implemented the Civic Education Schools sessions bringing together 34 young people from North and South Mitrovica, Zubin Potok, and Zvečan, Leposaviq/Leposavić. 32 sessions were organized twice per week, covering key topics such as human rights, nonviolent communication, critical thinking, preventing peer violence, media literacy, gender equality, and intercultural dialogue. The program not only strengthened youth knowledge and skills for civic participation but also provided a meaningful space for interethnic exchange, helping participants build trust, mutual understanding, and resilience to become active and engaged members of their communities.
As part of its ongoing support for youth-led initiatives, CBM supported an initiative by a civil society activists aiming to revitalize a shared public space. Over thecourse of three days, the project encouraged children and the community to take care of the environment and to feel a sense of ownership over the space, making it more vibrant and welcoming through joint activities. The project promoted values
such as environmental responsibility, care for public spaces, and teamwork. CBM will continue to support young activists like Idoia and their initiatives, which came from the previous training on project writing.
This activity is implemented within the framework of the “Resilient and Inclusive Communities Program”, supported by the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund.
CBM organized a workshop with parents and legal guardians from various schools in Mitrovica South on identifying early signs of radicalization and deviant behavior in children and youth that may lead to violent acts and terrorism. The workshop was facilitated by Mr. Milot Sfishta from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, who addressed the importance of early identification, prevention, and timely action. CBM is
planning to conduct similar workshops within school facilities in Mitrovica to
ensure greater outreach to parents, legal guardians, and school officials. This activity is implemented within the framework of the “Resilient and Inclusive Communities Program”, supported by the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF).
CBM youth participants and staff joined Se Bashku for a day of community-building in Mitrovica! As part of our ongoing project “Promoting Youth Dialogue and Trust- Building through Cross-Community Collaboration,” funded by #UNMIK participants from the recently conducted Youth Camp proposed the
idea to help revitalize Se Bashku’s outdoor space. Together, they planted flowers and added a symbolic tree representing strength and resilience. Following the activity, a shared lunch provided an informal setting for participants from both organizations and their beneficiaries to connect, exchange experiences, and strengthen both inter-organizational collaboration and interpersonal relationships, further reinforcing the spirit of unity and community trust the project aims to build.
As part of its ongoing efforts to support young people, CBM recently organized a two-day workshop on “Project Writing, Fundraising, and Activity Implementation”.
The workshop brought together youth from different ethnic backgrounds to build practical skills in planning and managing community projects. Over the course of two days, youngsters learned the fundamentals of project development — from understanding project goals and objectives to budgeting and planning activities. They also had the chance to work in groups and develop project ideas focused on addressing local community needs. CBM will support these youth-led initiatives by offering small grants and ongoing guidance to help bring their ideas to life. At the end of the workshop, youngsters were awarded certificates in recognition of their participation and contribution. This activity is implemented within the framework of the “Resilient and Inclusive Communities Program”, supported by the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF).
CBM took 35 young people from the Mitrovica region on a journey to Prizren! Coming from diverse ethnic backgrounds, they explored cultural and historical gems like the Sinan Pasha Mosque and Saint George Orthodox Church, experiencing and learning about the city’s rich heritage.
Similarly to previous years, CBM had the pleasure of hosting a group of 20 international students from the European Master’s Degree in Human Rights and Democratization (EMA) and the Vienna Master in Applied Human Rights. During their visit, talked about our work in peacebuilding and reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of grassroots initiatives in fostering sustainable change. We engaged in a discussion about the complexities of working—and living—in our unique local context.
Today was the first day of the Cultural Cookout Winter Camp! Around 30 young participants from high schools with diverse ethnic backgrounds in Mitrovica took part in various camp activities such as: Icebreaker “My name on the plate”, Secret Friend, bingo, and Egg Drop Challenge. The goal of this camp is to bring communities together through food, cooking, and sharing traditions, while learning about healthy eating and culinary preparations. It was exciting and full of energy! This activity is funded by Kitchen Without Borders and implemented by Community Building Mitrovica.
Over the past three days, Mitrovica became a pot of flavours, stories, and friendships at Cultural Cookout, a unique camp supported by Cuisine sans Frontiers. Nearly 30 young participants from diverse ethnic backgrounds came together to explore how food connects us all.
Celebrating International Mother Language Day in Mitrovica!
CBM brought together 30 youth from Mitrovica North and South to honor the International Day of Mother Tongue!
Through fun and interactive exercises, participants learned about the importance of language, sharing phrases in each other’s native tongues, fostering understanding, and building bridges through words.
Media influence societal trends and we want reconciliation to be in the spotlight. Therefore, RCT seeks to find a meaningful place for the media to amplify our efforts to promote mutual understanding, acceptance, and appreciation.
RCT facilitates the establishment of a think tank, the first such organization in the region of Mitrovica. Its establishment will be grounded in a feasibility document that will lay out the plan for its sustainability and the profile of its members.