Prešov Mini Expo: Children’s Projects Charmed the Audience

We wrapped up the school year in Prešov in grand style. At the traditional Mini Expe, the kids showed their families and friends the unique projects they’d been working hard on for months. See what happens when children’s curiosity and energy combine with the motivation to improve their surroundings.

A friendly atmosphere, tremendous interest in the projects on display, and evidence of the children’s growing self-confidence. The Prešov Mini Expo exceeded our expectations.

The Open Future program lasts two years, which is why two groups of children presented their projects at the event. Sixth graders, who have successfully completed their first year, showcased their projects, as did seventh graders, for whom this presentation also served as an emotional farewell to the entire program.

Greater boldness or communication skills

“It’s a joy to see how the children have changed. I feel like I see a freer sense of self in all of them. They’re open, they can talk about their ideas, and they can articulate their opinions,” as described by our program coordinator in Prešov, Martina Vangorová.

According to her, everyone involved could see the children’s progress firsthand. “The children are more relaxed and know how to present in front of strangers. I can see that they’re more confident and have managed to break down that barrier where they used to be afraid to speak in front of people outside their bubble.”

Sixth- and seventh-grade girls and boys presented various projects. These included, for example, creating a relaxation area for children at school, art, and teaching seniors digital skills.

Teamwork and More Cohesive Thinking

Jana Pruchnerovičová, principal of Važecká Elementary School—where the Open Future project is based—also spoke highly of the projects.

“I’m thrilled that the children got to meet the older generation and tried to teach them something. In the end, it wasn’t just about teaching seniors how to use a cell phone and what to watch out for online. I see it as a meeting of two generations and confirmation that they have something to offer each other,” she explained.

The principal views the children’s participation in the “Future DIFFERENTLY” program very positively, not only because it helps develop their talents, but also because it fosters their ability to work together as a team and think collaboratively about how to improve their community.

“It’s nice to see that the children have been working to improve various things in their community and, in doing so, improve the lives of others. It really has a broader significance,” she added.