William Nokrek:
Looking back on the past week, I can’t help but feel inspired and hopeful. From August 5-11, 2024, I joined the Summer Camp 2024, organised by the JECI-MIEC European Coordination in Krutyń, Poland. As the International President of IMCS-MIEC Pax Romana, I often find myself in leadership roles but this time was different—I was part of the group, learning, sharing, and growing alongside some of the most passionate young people I’ve ever met.
Exploring Democracy and Diversity Together
Our camp focused on democracy and diversity, two values that are very close to my heart. But this week wasn’t just about talking but about living these values. Every conversation, every workshop, and even the casual chats by the lake helped us dig deeper into what it means to build a democratic and diverse society.
What stood out to me was how open everyone was. We all came from different backgrounds, each with our own unique experiences. Yet, we found common ground in our commitment to making the world better. We didn’t avoid the tough questions—we faced them head-on, knowing that these discussions would lead to real change.
Building Lasting Connections
One of the best parts of this camp was the connections we made. It’s easy to talk about bringing people together, but experiencing it firsthand is something else. Throughout the week, I watched friendships form, not just within cultural groups but across them. We laughed, learned from each other, and supported one another, creating bonds that I believe will last a lifetime.
As someone who often talks about the importance of global citizenship, it was incredibly rewarding to see this in action. The relationships we built were more than just social—they were rooted in our shared commitment to democracy and inclusivity. These connections are the foundation of something much bigger, and I’m proud to have been a part of it.
Learning from Different Perspectives
Even though I’ve met many young leaders from around the world, this camp reminded me that there’s always more to learn. The diversity of perspectives was incredible, and I was humbled by the insights that each person brought to the table. We connected local challenges to global issues, realising that while our situations might differ, our hopes and struggles are often very similar.
This experience reinforced the idea that real change comes from understanding both the global picture and local realities. As we talked about how to strengthen our democracies and promote inclusivity, it became clear that the solutions must be as diverse as the challenges we face. Yet, there was a common belief among us all: young people have the power to shape the future.
A Week of Growth and Gratitude
As I reflect on the week, I realise that this camp was not just about collective action but also about personal growth. I was reminded of the importance of staying true to our values and the community’s power in driving change. I left Krutyń feeling more inspired and committed than ever to supporting the next generation of leaders.
This wasn’t just another event for me—it was a meaningful experience that reaffirmed my belief that the future is bright. The young people I met aren’t just talking about democracy and diversity; they’re ready to make these ideals a reality.
A Sincere Thank You to the Organizers and Team
None of this would have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the organising and preparation team. From the planning to the execution, everything was done with such care, making sure that every participant felt welcome and engaged. The thoughtfulness and attention to detail made this camp a truly special experience.
To the entire team—thank you for your incredible work and passion for empowering young leaders. You’ve created something meaningful, and I’m deeply grateful for everything you’ve done. Your efforts have left a lasting impact, not just on the participants, but on the work we’ll continue to do.
As I continue my journey with IMCS-MIEC Pax Romana, I’ll carry the lessons and inspiration from this week. I’m more convinced than ever that by working together—across cultures, borders, and experiences—we can build a world that is more inclusive, democratic, and just.
Thank you to everyone who made this week possible and the participants who shared their thoughts, time, and hearts. Together, we’re not just talking about change—we’re making it happen.
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