More than 80 representatives of 43 civil society organisations from across the country gathered at the final meeting of organisations supported by the “Together” Fund, part of the “Rights and Values” project. Held on 15 May in Sofia, the meeting became a platform for sharing experience and discovering new pathways toward a more solidary and conscious society.

The meeting was opened by Iliyana Nikolova, Executive Director of the Workshop for Civic Initiatives Foundation.

Discoveries Begin with Superpowers

In the first part of the event, working in small groups, participants explored and identified their strengths. Some highlighted their ability to inspire young people; others pointed to their deep understanding of local needs; while others emphasised their capacity to bring together people with differing views. This session not only reinforced the sense of value in their work, but also demonstrated that when these “superpowers” come together, they create far greater impact.

At the end of the first part of the programme, each group not only identified its “superpowers” and chose a name reflecting its essence and energy, but also took part in a special photo session at a thematic photo corner. This interactive activity aimed to strengthen the sense of belonging, teamwork, and creativity among participants.

The photos were displayed on a shared “wall of the future,” where each group later added insights, ideas, and messages related to European rights and values for the days ahead.

More photos here.

From the Heart—to Hearts

The highlight of the event was a flash mob in which participants formed the shape of a heart and spelled out the letters EU with their bodies. This was not merely a symbolic gesture, but an expression of belonging to the values of solidarity, rights, and dignity that the European Union represents.

Practical Ideas with a View to the Future

In the second part of the event, the groups worked on real-life cases focused on identifying new approaches to engaging more supporters of EU values.

The outcomes were both inspiring and practical. Many participants shared that this part of the event revealed new ideas they could apply in their local-level work.

Letters to the Future

At the end of the day, each group wrote a “letter to future defenders of values.” These messages wove together hopes, advice, and inspiration for the generations who will carry forward the dialogue on rights and values in Europe.

Rather than marking the end of their efforts, the meeting became a new beginning for the civic activists present. They left not only with fresh ideas, but also with a strong sense of belonging to a network of like-minded people they can rely on. For many, the event was an opportunity to step out of the isolation of everyday challenges and see the bigger picture—that they are part of a community building a more just and compassionate future.