Intro
In the heart of North Macedonia, the city of Veles carries a long industrial legacy — once known for its metallurgy and chemical production, today it stands at the crossroads of environmental recovery and civic renewal. This interview brings together members of the Local Youth Council of Veles, a group of students determined to learn, act, and speak out for their city’s future. Through their words, the FIC-Fighters project captures a generational shift: young citizens engaging directly with environmental and governance challenges, transforming awareness into action. Their testimony reveals how education, dialogue, and local participation can turn a polluted past into a shared mission for sustainable development.
The Voice Behind the Case
The video features five young residents — Mihail Zdravkovski, Anja Trajkovska, Teona Gaštarska, Lili Andovska, and Marko Varnaliev — all active members of the Local Youth Council of Veles. From different schools but united by a sense of civic duty, they represent a generation growing up in a city historically marked by industrial pollution and social transformation.
Each introduces themselves with pride: students, athletes, and youth leaders dedicated to understanding and improving their community. “I am interested in promoting children’s rights and raising environmental awareness,” says Mihail, opening the conversation with a clear sense of purpose.
Their meeting with the FIC-FIGHTERS team reflects a broader commitment to youth inclusion in environmental governance — a central goal of Work Package 5 (Social Perception). The Local Youth Council serves as both a training ground and a voice for the new generation, bridging the gap between institutional action and everyday life in Veles.
Key Insights
- Awareness and Responsibility
The young participants express a growing interest in learning about the city’s environmental issues — not just to understand them, but to help address them. “We want to learn more about the problems affecting our municipality,” explains Anja, the Council’s president. This proactive stance demonstrates how civic education can empower young people to participate meaningfully in environmental dialogue. - Identity and Belonging
Despite the challenges, the group shows a strong attachment to their city. They see Veles not only as a place burdened by pollution, but as a community with the potential to evolve. “We are part of the change,” says Teona, highlighting their shared responsibility for the future. - From Awareness to Action
Their involvement in local initiatives — from youth forums to environmental campaigns — embodies the link between awareness and practice. Marko, who also represents North Macedonia as a whitewater kayaker, connects his sporting life with the need to protect rivers and nature: “Kayaking teaches respect for water — and that’s where awareness begins.” - Hope and Collaboration
The group’s tone remains hopeful. They view cooperation between local authorities, schools, and citizens as essential to improving environmental conditions. “We are still learning,” says Lili, “but if we work together, change is possible.” Their message resonates with the spirit of FIC-Fighters — fostering transparency, intergenerational dialogue, and community resilience across Europe’s former industrial regions.
Looking Ahead
The youth of Veles embody the renewal that the FIC-Fighters project seeks to inspire. Their commitment to environmental awareness and civic participation transforms concern into action — and action into hope. Through education and dialogue, they are not only analysing their city’s challenges but also redefining what it means to be part of its regeneration.
Their testimony reminds us that sustainable transformation starts with informed citizens — and that the most powerful voices often come from those just beginning to shape their world.
“We are still learning, but we can already make a difference.”
Resources
Full interview on: