A Training Camp “Together We Are Powerful”: Advocacy, Leadership and the Power of Community Starts in Yavoriv

A training camp titled “Developing the Capacity of Public Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs): Advocacy — Theoretical and Practical Aspects” was launched in Lviv region.

During five days, leaders and activists from different regions of Ukraine will immerse themselves in advocacy practice — from theory to developing their own action strategies for their communities. The camp is part of the project “Together We Are Powerful: Capacity Building of NGOs of People with Disabilities,” implemented by the National Assembly of People with Disabilities of Ukraine in partnership with the humanitarian organization People in Need and with the financial support from the people of the Czech Republic.

“Our objective is not just to provide knowledge, but to create a space where ideas, partnerships, and mutual support can emerge. Advocacy is not about slogans — it is about systemic work and a team capable of changing reality in their communities,” emphasized Yurii Vasylchenko, the Project Coordinator, during the camp opening.

Camp participants represent seven regions of Ukraine — Dnipropetrovsk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Mykolaiv, Kharkiv, Ivano-Frankivsk and Lviv. For many, this is not the first training experience, but it is an important stage in strengthening their organizations.

“We are starting with fundamentals – understanding that advocacy begins with the awareness of rights and responsibilities. It is essential that organizations of persons with disabilities not only participate in decision-making processes, but become full actors in them,” highlighted Larysa Bayda, camp trainer and NAPD Programme Director. “We will be talking about tools for influence, partnership, and above all – trust as the foundation of advocacy.”

In addition to training sessions, the programme includes well-being activities: morning exercise, boccia, and swimming. This approach combines learning with recovery — something especially important for people working daily in the field of rights protection and support.

“There are no lectures here in the traditional sense — there is teamwork, discussions, case studies, and hands-on exercises. And from day one, it is clear that a strong network of like-minded people is shaping,” added Yuri Vasylenko.

The camp will run until 10 October. On the final day, participants will present their own advocacy initiatives they plan to implement in their communities upon returning home.