Blog Cafés in Cherkasy: Media, Art, Inclusion, and Dialogue
Throughout the spring and autumn of 2025, Cherkasy hosted ten blog cafés as part of the “Together We Can” programme implemented by the Human Rights Foundation NGO.
These events created an open space for dialogue, joint reflection, and practical learning. Participants explored topics such as media influence, AI-generated disinformation, emotional resilience, tools of civic participation, inclusive dialogue, and effective communication.
April 30 — How Media Repeat and Why We Keep Consuming It
Moderator: A. Mishchenko
The session focused on how repeated messages shape public perception. Participants discussed why familiar narratives spread easily and how to maintain critical thinking amid information overload.
May 14 — Methods for Detecting AI-Generated Disinformation
Moderator: A. Mishchenko
Participants learned about the instruments and indicators that help identify AI-generated fakes and practiced verification techniques to avoid manipulation.
August 29 — Art as a Tool for Dialogue
Ambassador: Andrii Tyshchenko
Through artistic practices, participants explored how creativity can foster understanding, trust, and space for shared experiences. Dialogue emerged naturally from interaction and co-creation.
September 11 — Do Something Good!
Moderator: A. Mishchenko
This playful, teamwork-based workshop invited participants to propose and design community-improving initiatives. The group generated several creative social ideas and presented them to their peers.
September 17 — Emotional Self-Control in the Media Environment
Ambassador: Denys Tsiura
Participants examined how emotions shape their interaction with media, how to recognize manipulation, and how to maintain emotional balance in a high-pressure information landscape.
September 25 — Civic Participation: Tools of Influence and a Simulation Game
Organizers: Student Council of ChDTU
The event introduced key civic engagement instruments and included a simulation game that allowed participants to explore decision-making processes within a local community.
October 3 — Inclusive Dialogue
Ambassador: Andrii Tyshchenko
This blog café was dedicated to the principles of inclusive communication. Participants discussed how empathy, respect, and openness help reduce barriers and strengthen community cohesion.
October 9 — Civic Participation: Petitions as a Tool for Change
Organizers: Student Council of ChDTU
Participants learned how petitions work, what makes them effective, and developed draft versions of their own petitions on issues relevant to their community.
October 23 — Detecting Disinformation in Text
Moderator: A. Mishchenko
The session explored manipulation patterns in written content. Participants practiced text analysis, identified “red flags,” and discussed how AI technologies contribute to the spread of disinformation.
October 30 — Speedrun in Effective Communication and Public Speaking
Moderator: A. Mishchenko
An interactive training session focused on public speaking confidence, improvisation techniques, and active listening. Participants practiced short presentations and real-time communication exercises.
The series of blog cafés in Cherkasy demonstrated that strong communities are built on openness, empathy, and the willingness to act together.
Each session empowered participants with new knowledge, practical tools, and shared experiences that strengthen civic engagement.
The project is implemented by the Human Rights Foundation NGO within the “Together We Can” programme with the support of IFA and the Federal Foreign Office of Germany.
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