As part of the “Stronger Ys” project, YMCA Moldova organized Activity 2.2.1—”Youth-centred activities”—aimed at developing entrepreneurial skills and fostering initiative among young people. The event took place at the “Viorel Găină” Gymnasium No. 74 in Tohatin, Chișinău Municipality, bringing together approximately 45 young people, primarily aged 15–16.

Together with a local expert, YMCA Moldova implemented a module tailored to the participants, focusing on the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and transforming an idea into a business initiative. The young people discussed identifying community needs, generating business ideas, potential customers, and promotion, as well as revenue, costs, and profit. The activity emphasized hands-on learning and teamwork.

Participants developed their own start-up ideas based on problems or opportunities identified within the community, and ultimately presented them through short entrepreneurial pitches. The best proposals were recognized and awarded medals.

At the end, a guest entrepreneur shared his business experience with the young people, discussing initiative, responsibility, challenges, relationships with employees and clients, and the importance of perseverance.

Through this activity, YMCA Moldova contributed to fostering creativity, initiative, communication, teamwork, and young people’s confidence in their own ideas, presenting entrepreneurship both as a potential career path and as a tool for community development.