Across Russia, the youth organization known as 'Dvizhenie Pervykh' (Movement of the First) is making significant strides with the opening of new local branches and exciting initiatives aimed at igniting passion among young people. This movement, which was established on July 14, 2022, has quickly grown to encompass approximately 4 million children nationwide, fostering community engagement and personal growth.
The latest addition to this initiative was the opening of its first district center in Gusinoozersk, where local school and technical college students previously operated within various informal venues such as parks. Participant Dandar, reflecting on the new facility, mentioned, "It's certainly more comfortable in the building. The structure is beautiful, and repairs are still underway to make it even more inviting." This new center symbolizes the movement’s commitment to providing organized spaces for youth development.
Emilia, another enthusiastic participant, emphasized the importance of openness and engagement, stating, "You need to have great desire first and foremost, and you also need to be someone who is very open. This is the opportunity to showcase your best qualities, be active, and make numerous friends." Polina echoed this sentiment, sharing her love for helping others by feeding animals and expressing genuine compassion for her community.
The 'Dvizhenie Pervykh' is not just about personal development; it's also about competing on larger platforms. For example, Alexey Naydanov, from the neighboring Selenginsk district, has gained recognition as a semi-finalist in the 'Bolshaya Peremena' (Big Change) competition, showcasing the exceptional talent nurtured by this movement. Alexey Tsidenov, the head of the Republic of Buryatia, praised the youth’s dedication, stating, "You are compassionate, proactive, and confidently moving forward through life. I wish you to keep it up!”
Elsewhere, the movement celebrated the opening of another primary unit at the Multi-Specialty Lyceum No. 1, located within the Ali-Yurt rural settlement. Notably, the ceremony radiated positivity and unity, marking this momentous occasion with valuable support from local leaders including school principal Milana Khasieva and district administration specialists like Khavazh Geliskhanov and Lelya Kartoeva. Public figures emphasized, "May this new primary division thrive and contribute to the cultivation of talented and initiative-driven youth within the region!"
Engagement with local communities is pivotal to 'Dvizhenie Pervykh'. For example, the rescue services of Kovrov collaborated with the local branch to conduct introductory meetings aimed at forming volunteer teams among school students. Volunteer Maria Khakhanova commended the initiative, noting, "We will teach you to help people within your capacity. We will learn first aid, safety rules, and what it's like to work as firefighters during emergencies." Through hands-on learning experiences, students are encouraged to connect with community service actively.
One of the most significant future projects includes the upcoming season of the Primary Divisions Competition. Teams of students and their mentors will present various innovative projects across regions aimed at attracting and enhancing youth involvement. This year, over 4,000 primary divisions will be awarded, with five leaders receiving up to 1 million rubles each. Artyur Orlov, the Chairman of the Movement, highlighted the competition's role, stating, "This is an opportunity to gain direct resource support for developmental activities across educational institutions, cultural centers, and volunteer initiatives." With over 49,000 divisions established across numerous schools and youth organizations, participation has never been more encouraging.
Further bolstering engagement, young leaders from Vologda are set to compete for grants up to 10 million rubles to support youth-driven initiatives aimed at promoting development, education, arts, and environmental consciousness, among other areas. The Minister of Youth Policy for the Vologda region, Vitaly Kobylnikov, reiterated, "It's important for projects to be proposed or backed by younger generations and adhere to co-creation principles with adults." Calls for proposals will be accepted until March 3, and successful projects will see implementation by 2025.
The burgeoning 'Dvizhenie Pervykh' movement across Russia exemplifies how organized youth initiatives can spur personal growth, community involvement, and collaborative projects. This extensive outreach not only provides avenues for young people to express themselves but also cultivates future leaders capable of tackling societal challenges effectively.