On the first day of summer, June 1st, Borovlyany became a hub of kindness and genuine children's smiles. On this significant day, the "Open Soul" volunteer group, created at the Faculty of Engineering and Pedagogics of the Belarusian National Technical University (BNTU), held a large-scale charity event. Student activists traveled to the social and pedagogical institution "SOS Children's Village" to give the local children a true holiday filled with laughter, games, and attention. This trip became a shining example of how the younger generation of future teachers and engineers takes responsibility for those in need of support and care.
For reference: International Children's Day, celebrated on June 1st, is intended to remind society of the need to respect the rights of minors to a safe childhood, education, and leisure. It is a day of care, attention, and support for the younger generation.
For this event, volunteers chose the "Children's Village" in Borovlyany —a unique complex where orphans and children left without parental care live in conditions as close to family as possible. Instead of traditional boarding schools, cozy cottages have been built here. Each cottage is home to a separate "family," led by a caregiver. This model helps the children successfully socialize, but they always welcome new guests, socialize, and celebrate vibrant holidays.
The "Open Soul" volunteer group is successfully operating at the BNTU Faculty of Engineering and Pedagogy. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that its members are future engineering educators. The professional competencies acquired at the faculty combine profound technical knowledge with rigorous psychological and pedagogical training. Students at the Faculty are skilled in the professional design of not only technical facilities but also educational and entertainment programs. For the "Open Soul" group, charity is not a one-time event, but a systematic effort to support children in difficult life situations, unlock their creative potential, and foster sound value orientations.
The students' prepared program for the holiday was designed to maximize the involvement of every child. The event took place outdoors, thanks to the warm June weather.
The celebration began with several key themes: fun and active outdoor games. Students organized a series of active relay races and competitions. Running, team competitions, and overcoming mock obstacles brought a flurry of excitement to the children. Loud laughter and cheers were guaranteed for every participant.
Face painting workshop. Every child was able to transform into their favorite hero, fairytale character, or animal. IPF volunteers carefully applied hypoallergenic paints, creating true masterpieces on the children's faces and adding a magical atmosphere to the celebration.
A sea of smiles, joy, and sincere hugs filled the Children's Village space with warm emotions. The meeting concluded with shared photos and heartfelt, friendly hugs that will remain etched in the children's memories for a long time.
First-year FEP student Ekaterina Matsukevich shared her impressions of the trip:
"Upon arrival, we noticed that the children were a little reserved at first. However, within a few minutes, the ice was broken: we were playing games with the kids, laughing, and enjoying the company. I especially remember one episode with a boy about seven years old—he asked me to draw him a superhero mask. When he saw the result, he enthusiastically said, 'Now I can save everyone!' At that moment, I clearly realized that our trip had truly been beneficial and enjoyable. Seeing the children's happy faces was priceless. I firmly intend to continue participating in such events."
This celebration left a deep mark on the hearts of all its participants, and the best reward for the volunteers was the emotional response. The children from the Children's Village sincerely, with all the sincerity of children, thanked the students for this amazing day. Their shining eyes, warm hugs, and friendly "thank you" were the main proof that the children's efforts were not in vain.
Special words of gratitude and admiration go to the student volunteers of the "Open Soul" team. Your compassion, selflessness, and willingness to share your warmth deserve the highest respect. You were able to take a break from your personal concerns and academic commitments to give your time and energy to those in need. Through your work, you have proven that the students of the BNTU Institute of Applied Physics are people with enormous, sensitive, and truly kind hearts.
The event once again reminded us all of a simple but important truth: giving a child a sense of wonder doesn't require enormous material expenditures. Sometimes, all it takes is a little personal attention, a touch of sincere warmth, and friendly concern. For the children at the Children's Village, this day became a vivid memory that strengthened their faith in kindness. And for the students of the Institute of Applied Philosophy at BNTU, the trip to Borovlyany was an important step in their personal and professional development, as future teachers must be able to share not only their knowledge but also their heart. Good deeds always leave a deep mark, and the "Open Soul" volunteer group will certainly continue its noble path.
