Representative of CBMZ participated in "Youth Ambassadors and Peer Educators ToT (Training of Trainers)'' event, held by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe

On October 6 and 7, 2026, Zorica Spirovska, Program Assistant at the Center for Safety and Mental Health (CBMZ), participated in the "Training of Trainers: Youth Ambassadors and Peer Educators for the Prevention of Early Marriages" held in Veles and organized by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe - OSCE Mission in Skopje.

The training was dedicated to the prevention of early marriage, with a focus on the role of youth ambassadors and peer educators in raising awareness, informing and encouraging conversation about this issue among young people.

Over the course of the two days, several interrelated topics were addressed. Participants were introduced to the concepts of equality and non-discrimination, examined the differences between prejudice, stereotype and discrimination, and learned how to recognise discrimination in everyday situations.

Special attention was paid to gender-based violence, controlling behaviour, pressure and manipulation, as well as how gender stereotypes influence the attitudes and choices of young people. The serious consequences of early and child marriage on the lives of young people, signs that a young person is being pressured into marriage and steps that can be taken in such a situation were also discussed.

Part of the training focused on peer violence: from distinguishing conflict from bullying, through the different forms of violence (physical, verbal, social, online and violence related to ethnicity and gender), to the role of the victim, perpetrator and witness. Participants practised how to move from passive observers to active and safe supporters (upstanders), how to react when a young person confides in them about experienced violence and how to recognise warning signs that require additional support or referral. In this regard, they were also introduced to the practical tool SAFE (See – Assess Safety – Find Support – Empower).

The training also had a strong practical component. Through sessions on youth activism and organising a workshop with young people, the participants considered ways in which young people can be motivated to participate, how to create an environment in which they feel free, accepted and heard, and how to include quieter participants. They also worked with interactive methods and techniques: icebreakers, energizers, games, group work, discussion, role-play, storytelling and brainstorming. The second day was dedicated to practical work in teams on three topics (non-discrimination, early marriage and peer violence), followed by presentations, conclusions and evaluation.

Peer education is an important approach in prevention work, as it enables young people to actively participate in identifying problems affecting their peers and in sharing information and knowledge within their communities.

Participation in this training is in line with the efforts of the CBMZ to strengthen capacities for preventive work, protect vulnerable categories and increase the involvement of young people in activities important for their safety and well-being.