Recently, the Kylymarka Center transformed into a vibrant hive of intellectual and creative energy. We had the honor of hosting participants of the “Creative Economy Development Grants” program by British Council Ukraine. This event was particularly significant as it brought together grantees from two consecutive cycles for the first time: the experienced 2024–2025 cohort and the ambitious new wave of 2025–2026.

Throughout the workshop, participants focused on intensive strategic planning. The core question addressed by the teams was how individual initiatives—ranging from professional associations to local creative hubs—can interact to build a resilient and sustainable national ecosystem. Representatives from the music, literature, design, animation, and traditional crafts sectors presented their projects and identified points of synergy. Mentors and participants from the first wave shared "on-the-ground" insights, helping the new teams prepare for the challenges ahead.

At Kylymarka, we believe that creativity is impossible without roots. Therefore, a vital part of the program involved immersion into the cultural context of Kosiv. Participants visited the Kosiv Museum of Folk Art and Life of the Hutsul Region, witnessing firsthand how traditional Kosiv ceramics and weaving serve as a foundation for modern creative interpretations.It was essential for us to provide an atmosphere where every guest felt like part of a larger community. We aimed for the surrounding mountains and the spirit of the Carpathians to complement the productive sessions facilitated by the Lanka.pro team.

While we are still buzzing from the energy of the workshop, the program is preparing to officially announce the 2025–2026 grantees. Here at Kylymarka, we remain ever-open to new collaborations and bold, transformative ideas.We extend our gratitude to our partners for their trust and to the participants for their inexhaustible energy!

‍Photography: Khrystyna Kulakovska