On April 26, 2024, the mountain town of Bansko transformed into a stage for civic action, creativity, and youth empowerment during the Final Escape Room Event under the “Don’t Escape Your Rights” project. The event gathered nearly 100 high school students aged 15–19 from surrounding towns and villages—including Belitsa, Banya, Bachevo, Dobrinishte, Petrich and Razlog—for an unforgettable day of hands-on civic learning.
The event marked the culmination of months of work by 24 Youth Active Ambassadors, who had been trained earlier in the year to become local leaders and peer educators.
Participants entered escape room scenarios that simulated real-life democratic challenges—ranging from voting dilemmas and political negotiations to defending human rights and making community decisions. Each room was designed to test not only logic and teamwork, but also knowledge of civic rights, responsibilities, and decision-making processes.
What made this experience unique was the way it blended fun with purpose. Students navigated locked boxes, clues, and puzzles—but at the heart of every task was a critical question about youth agency, participation, and democracy.
The event was not just about solving puzzles—it was about young people stepping into leadership roles. All escape room scenarios were co-designed and facilitated by the Youth Ambassadors themselves, many of whom had never imagined they could organize such an impactful experience. The event also featured reflection zones, where participants discussed what they learned and how it applies to real life—building a bridge between the game and their role as active citizens.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Many participants shared that it was the first time they had ever talked seriously about voting, political engagement, or human rights—and certainly the first time they had done so through such an interactive format. The day ended not just with unlocked boxes, but with unlocked perspectives: new interest in civic life, new friendships, and many asking how to get involved further.
In fact, following the event, over 50 new young people applied to join ProVision’s volunteer network or expressed interest in taking part in future civic and educational activities.
The Final Escape Room Event in Bansko was more than just the end of a project—it was the launchpad for ongoing youth participation. It showed that with the right tools, trust, and creativity, young people from even the most remote communities can take the lead in shaping their futures.
As the Youth Ambassadors return to their towns and schools, they carry with them not just skills, but a renewed sense of purpose—and a clear message for their peers:
Don’t escape your rights. Own them. Use them. Share them.
