Today, September 16, the "Youth for Youth" festival—the final event of the "17 Facets of Unity" socio-political marathon—took place at the "Pershy Natsyyanalny Handlovy Dom" (First National Trading House) shopping center. Minsk served as the project's seventeenth and final stop, bringing together over 600 students from across the city, including representatives from the Belarusian National Technical University (BNTU). Timur Matyushinets, Vice-Rector for Ideological and Educational Work and Chairman of the BNTU primary organization of the "Belaya Rus" Republican Public Association, joined the young people at the festival. The organizers prioritized dynamism and lively interaction, offering the youth a fresh format for engagement. The shopping center came alive with music, creative performances, and interactive zones hosted by "Belaya Rus" organizations and enterprises from every district of the capital.
The Confucius Institute for Science and Technology at BNTU also presented an interactive zone at the event, with support from the Sovetsky District (Minsk) organization of "Belaya Rus." Visitors had the opportunity to experience Chinese culture firsthand: practicing calligraphy, trying their hand at spinning traditional dance scarves, and viewing an exhibition of works by students from the *Guohua* (traditional Chinese painting) and calligraphy courses.
Additionally, the stage hosted a "political stand-up" session, where young activists and experienced speakers discussed the core significance of unity. Joining the open dialogue were Andrei Basak, Deputy Chairman of the "Belaya Rus" public association; Andrei Lazutkin, a Belarusian political scientist and commentator; political analyst Grigory Azarenok; and Alexander Lukyanov, Head of the Main Directorate for Ideological Work and Youth Affairs at the Minsk City Executive Committee.
The speakers shared their views on the significance of National Unity Day, social cohesion, historical lessons, and the importance of engaging in direct conversation with the new generation. For instance, Alexander Lukyanov noted that the primary goal of such gatherings is not merely to engage an already interested audience, but also to reach those who are still coming to understand the significance of this national holiday. He emphasized that the essence of national unity lies in striving for a shared future and preventing the division of the Belarusian land and its people.
The festival was marked by a truly lively and informal atmosphere. For several hours, students and shopping mall visitors alike enjoyed testing their knowledge in quizzes, participating in contests, learning about the traditions of various countries, and simply having a great time. Each activity zone offered something unique, transforming this large-scale project into a warm, festive event where young people could have fun and unwind after their studies.
Such moments of shared leisure make the concept of unity feel both natural and easily understood. Through creativity, new connections, and a willingness to listen to one another, the very cohesion with which Minsk’s youth welcomes National Unity Day is forged.
