Unexpected Kindness and Cross-Cultural Moments: Visiting Schools in Biłgoraj and Stary Majdan
-
by
INPRO
Some experiences leave a quiet mark on your heart – our recent school visits in Biłgoraj and Stary Majdan were exactly that.
Together with Ania, we spent two unforgettable days visiting Zofia Krawiec Primary School in Stary Majdan and a school in Biłgoraj. In total, we led 15 workshops and reached around 270 curious, kind, and bright students.
Our journey started in Biłgoraj, where we were warmly welcomed by the school’s headmistress. Her openness and the thoughtful gifts she offered us made us feel instantly at home – it was a small gesture that meant a lot.
The next day, we headed to Stary Majdan, a nearby village surrounded by peaceful fields and small roads. As volunteers from Armenia 🇦🇲 and Ukraine 🇺🇦, we were excited to bring our cultures into the classroom. I shared stories, photos, and traditions from Armenia, while Ania led a workshop on safe and responsible social media use – a topic that really resonated with the students. She also gave them a glimpse into Ukrainian life and culture.
One of my favourite moments came during a session with 8th graders. What started as a simple cultural presentation turned into a lively and thoughtful conversation. The students weren’t just listening – they were reflecting, asking meaningful questions, and offering their own insights. It felt like a real exchange, not just a lesson.
What made this visit truly special was the warmth we received from both students and teachers. Their curiosity, kindness, and hospitality were felt in every classroom and hallway. At the end of our time in Stary Majdan, the teachers surprised us with sweet gifts – another act of generosity that we’ll never forget.
It’s moments like these that remind us why we do this work. It’s not just about standing in front of a classroom or sharing facts. It’s about building bridges, making connections, and learning from each other in the most human way possible.
We left with full hearts – and with the hope of coming back one day.
written by Mariam Manukyan