Youngsters change city for the better, do not wait until anyone does it for them – coordinators of Teplytsia platform for initiatives in Sloviansk

Kyiv, February 25, 2016. Teplytsia (eng. – Greenhouse) platform of initiatives in Sloviansk is a place for self-development and creativity as well as the place where all eager can discuss the ideas for development of their city or directly implement them. The organizers have recently held the first urban hackathon “Phase of Changes” devoted to the city development, its culture and seeking to engage people in this process. “Informer” was chosen best project, it foresees upgrading the information stand and creating public space around it. “Information about the city, a bulletin board and information for internally displaced persons will be placed there. Wi-Fi spot and benches will be also introduced there,” said Maria Keliy, coordinator of Teplytsia project speaking via Skype at a press briefing at Ukraine Crisis Media Center (UCMC) in the framework of UCMC’s project “Spokesperson of peaceful life”.

Project initiators have received the prize in the amount of UAH 6 000 for its implementation.

According to Inesa Venikova, member of the winning team of the “Phase of Changes” hackathon the work is to be started this weekend already. “It is important to me to contribute to this city. To make something for it,” noted Venikova.

Among its other plans Teplytsia intends demonstrating documentary films accompanied by discussions with experts, holding master classes for children and their parents, upgrading the city’s central park.

“Local residents do not have an opportunity to learn about western urban projects. That’s why we invite activists from across Ukraine and from other countries to come and visit us,” said Hanna Avdiyants, coordinator of Teplytsia project. In the framework of the hackathon Sloviansk hosted activists from Druzhkivka who are dealing with rebranding of the city and are publishing “Khalva” magazine. UCMC’s arts department made a presentation on how the culture can be changing the city.

Similar platforms are operational in other cities of Donbas, including “Vilna Khata” in Kramatorsk, “Lesia Hub” in Druzhkivka, such space is planned to be opened in Krasny Lymanas well.

According to Maria Keliy urban conference is planned to be held in March. Architects from across Ukraine are invited, it is expected that they will research the local context and will present their solutions to actual problems. Second hackathon is scheduled for April.