Maria has finished her amazing program at the #newyorktimes summer program 
. She embodied our mission of building cultural connection among youth – hear her words below
“Besides all the knowledge I gained, I also met some of the kindest, most genuine people. I became really good friends with my roommate Alina, she’s from China, and with Maria, she’s from Brazil. It was so nice to meet people from all over the world.
I was truly inspired by how passionate everyone was about their programs. I noticed how open, confident, friendly, and easygoing the teens were—it felt so easy to connect. Being around people like that is a gift.
This experience taught me something deeply personal too: never be afraid to be yourself. Believe in your knowledge. Believe in your voice. Don’t worry about what others might think. Even if someone seems “better” than you—it’s just a feeling. Keep going, stay focused on your goals, and don’t give up.
Thanks to KKU my world became larger and that won’t change. The time I spent here will always stay in my heart!”
#KidsKonnectUkraine#NYTimes#Moveukraine#youth#programming#summer
