From March to June 2024, RENATE members in Ukraine organized a series of impactful awareness-raising events for children in the Lviv region of Ukraine. Aimed at educating youth on the dangers of human trafficking and promoting preventative practices, these events reached 349 participants, ranging in age from 6 to 16 years old and spanning grades 1 to 10. The initiative included a total of 11 awareness sessions, each lasting between one and one and a half hours. Recognizing the diverse age range of participants, organizers tailored methodologies and activities to engage each age group effectively. These efforts included various formats such as trainings, informational games, picture competitions, and community street actions. The majority of the events were held in secondary schools, allowing students to engage in preventive and educational sessions within familiar settings. These school-based events encouraged open discussion and provided critical information on how to avoid risky situations and understand the realities of human trafficking.
Beyond the classroom, community-wide initiatives brought important messages to the streets of Lviv. The street action “Travel Safely!” emphasized the importance of cautious and informed travel, while the “Be Free!” bike ride symbolized freedom from exploitation and the right to move safely in the world. These engaging activities not only brought awareness but also built a supportive community committed to protecting children and youth. Through these events, RENATE strengthened its mission of raising awareness about human trafficking dangers and equipping young people with knowledge and skills to stay safe. This initiative demonstrated the power of education and community action in preventing exploitation and promoting a safer future for youth in Ukraine.