Funding organisation: Kindernothilfe (KNH)
Project duration: 12 months — from 1 October 2026 to 30 September 2027.
Beneficiaries:
The programme aims to involve 40 young people aged 17–25 who are refugees, asylum seekers or protection holders living in Sofia. Participants include unaccompanied minors, young people leaving care and those living independently. Support will be provided with the involvement of 20 student mentors.
Overall objective:
The project aims to strengthen young people’s independence, social inclusion and personal development through mentoring, language practice and practical skills development. Their experiences and recommendations will also inform advocacy for better protection and integration opportunities.
Main activities:
- Focus groups and individual conversations to identify young people’s needs, interests and goals.
- Recruitment and training of student mentors, including preparation in intercultural communication, safe working practices and safeguarding.
- Regular individual mentoring meetings and support towards personal goals.
- Group language practice and thematic sessions on education, training, employment, everyday skills and social relationships.
- Information sessions on rights, safety and recognising violence, exploitation and risky situations.
- Supervision and ongoing support for mentors, progress monitoring and participant feedback.
- Voluntary sharing and documentation of lived experiences to inform advocacy recommendations.
- Advocacy meetings and a final exhibition presenting young people’s perspectives and achievements.
Expected results:
- Greater confidence and independence among young people.
- Improved language, social and practical skills.
- Better understanding of education, training and employment opportunities.
- Supportive relationships and a stronger sense of belonging.
- Trained student mentors with practical experience in supporting young refugees.
- Advocacy recommendations informed by participants’ needs and lived experiences.
The project is implemented by the Council of Refugee Women in Bulgaria with support from Kindernothilfe (KNH).
