From July 23 to 25, 2025, our CEGE team took part in the National Meeting "Youth Organizations, Youth Centers, and Young People's Free Time," hosted at the International Youth Center in Pernik. The event gathered over 70 participants from more than 15 youth organizations, youth centers, and informal groups from across the country, offering a dynamic space for exchange, inspiration, and collaboration.

One of the highlights of the meeting was the Fair of Free Time — a special initiative under the Urban View project, supported by the National Youth Program (2021–2025) of the Ministry of Youth and Sports. The fair attracted strong interest from local young people and brought together over 30 youth-led structures from across Bulgaria.

The event showcased a wide variety of ideas and activities on how youth workers can engage young people during their free time in meaningful and creative ways. From volunteering, arts, and culture to sports, board games, and cause-driven initiatives — the fair was a lively platform where organizations presented their work through interactive workshops, engaging presentations, and informal networking.

Our association, Change, Explore and Grow by Exchange, was proud to be part of this inspiring event. We contributed by presenting our ongoing projects and sharing good practices from our international youth work and cultural exchange experiences. It was a great opportunity to connect with like-minded youth workers, explore new collaboration opportunities, and get inspired by the energy and creativity of other initiatives.

The fair was honored by the presence of the Deputy Mayor and the Secretary of the Municipality of Pernik, who addressed the participants and emphasized the importance of such events in encouraging active citizenship and empowering youth participation. Their message reinforced the belief that free time is not just leisure — it can be a valuable space for learning, growing, and contributing to the community.

Through this event, the International Youth Center in Pernik reaffirmed its role as a vibrant hub for youth empowerment and exchange. The Fair of Free Time left us energized, motivated, and filled with ideas for future initiatives that continue to support young people's development and engagement.