The project aimed at bringing together different generations while focusing on building and maintaining relationships between two different yet similarly positioned groups—elderly refugees and both refugee and local young people—has successfully concluded. Over eight months, participants met 12 times, engaging in activities such as visiting Kihnu Island, performing theatre, learning about artificial intelligence, preparing traditional Ukrainian cuisine, and much more.
Sofja Popova, a youth activities specialist at the Estonian Refugee Council, was very pleased with the project. She noted that shared activities and the connections formed through them help refugees adapt better to their new environment while also supporting their mental health and well-being. “Many Ukrainian young people living in Estonia have grandparents who remained in their homeland, and they may never meet again. Meanwhile, elderly refugees find it harder to adapt to a new environment as they hold onto strong memories of their home country.”
To help Ukrainian refugees, particularly the most vulnerable among them, integrate better into their new surroundings, the Estonian Refugee Council developed an intergenerational approach with the support of the European Solidarity Corps. This initiative aids those fleeing war in integrating into society, forming trustworthy connections, and finding joy in life. “All our meetings were wonderful! The young and elderly participants quickly formed friendships, and their interactions were warm and natural, despite the significant age difference. The purpose of the meetings was to spark interest in topics they had not previously explored, providing them with a fresh perspective and a strong foundation for navigating new circumstances,” said Popova.
The activities were diverse, offering both joy and support. Over the course of the project, participants took part in a fun photo hunt on Kihnu Island, played team and board games, shared tea and conversations, laughed together, and enjoyed quality time. The young people taught the elderly how to make sushi, while the older generation guided them in preparing varenyky. Elderly participants demonstrated how to knit toys, and the younger ones, in turn, introduced them to artificial intelligence. There was also a theatre masterclass, where they explored physical theatre and crafted handmade characters, among other activities.
As the project left a deep impression on participants, they collectively decided to continue meeting. They plan to gather once a month, with some events already scheduled: a theatre workshop took place in March, a cooking session is planned for April, and a board game evening is set for May.
Participant Feedback
At the end of the project, we collected feedback from participants to learn about their experiences, emotions, and what the project meant to them.
Ljubov, 74 years old: “I am very sad that the project has ended. Among us were older people and young ones, who became like our children. The meetings were always warm and cosy, just like home. Our gatherings were interesting, and in this difficult time, I hoped to find common interests and support each other. The most important part of the meetings, however, was our dear Sofja—an amazing, attentive, and caring person who understood all our concerns. A wonderful and excellent mother to her sons. I wish all of us the very best for the future!”
Galina, 70 years old: “A dialogue between generations has taken place. Communication is a fundamental human means of building relationships, fostering understanding, respect, and support. The world is in turmoil, and both young and old must cope with extreme difficulties. These challenges force young people to mature faster. Despite this, they have not lost the ability to enjoy simple pleasures and can also think deeply and discuss abstract concepts. Meanwhile, adults rediscovered the ability to appreciate and enjoy the small moments of everyday life. Sofja created an environment of lively, thoughtful, and friendly interaction. The meeting schedules and activities were largely determined by the participants themselves.”
Ljubov, 64 years old: “This was a wonderful project that brought together young and older generations. The meetings filled my heart with warmth, created an atmosphere of mutual understanding, and provided an invaluable opportunity to exchange experiences. For young people, it was a lesson in wisdom and resilience; for the elderly, it was an infusion of energy and inspiration from the younger generation. We hope these gatherings will become a cherished tradition, bringing joy and benefits to all participants!”
Jevheniia, 18 years old: “I really loved our meetings—they were truly amazing and interesting! Sofja, you brought together such wonderful grandmothers. I hope we can meet again at future events!”
Vladimir, 16 years old: “I really enjoyed the project—the older generation was simply wonderful! They shared with us warmth and love, which we so often lack, as our own grandparents remained in Ukraine. We talked, joked, and were completely in tune with each other.”
The project is funded by the European Commission’s European Solidarity Corps programme. The content of this publication reflects the views of the author, and the European Commission is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information it contains.
