The Luník IX district in Košice is changing, and young people are at the heart of this transformation. In the collaboration with the Roma for Future civic organization based in Kosice and the district Lunik IX (Kosice) we launched Eco Shield, a youth-led environmental platform. Supported by our the Green Roma Inclusion Program (GRIP – 2024), initiative tackling energy poverty and championing sustainability in the community.
Challenging Stereotypes, Creating Change
Luník IX has often been portrayed negatively, but a fresh wave of activism is rewriting its story. Young residents are taking ownership of their neighborhood, working to make it cleaner and greener. “We want them to feel empowered to shape their surroundings,” says Tomáš Matta, chairman of Roma for the Future and co-founder of Eco Shield. As a former teacher at a local school, Matta saw the need for better environmental education and teamed up with his colleague, Stanislava Dotková, to drive action.
Learning by Doing: Hands-On Environmental Education
The journey began with a community workshop at the local school, where students learned about energy poverty, waste management, and environmental protection in an interactive way. This workshop was lead by on of the most known Roma teacher Michal Sivák, the workshop sparked enthusiasm among young participants.
Thanks to European Climate Foundation (ECF) funding and RESDI’s sources allocation, six waste bins made from recycled wood were installed across the estate. To keep the project running, students received small environmental scholarships, giving them responsibility for maintaining the bins and spreading awareness about proper waste disposal.
Turning Awareness into Action
“We want young people to see their impact,” says Viktor Teru, director of RESDI. This initiative goes beyond waste collection; it fosters responsibility, community pride, and long-term sustainability. The next steps include educational field trips to eco-centers, equipping young people with leadership skills in environmental activism.
One of the most ambitious goals is establishing a social enterprise focused on green initiatives, waste separation, and management. This effort will not only promote sustainability but also create new job opportunities in the district.
Building a Community That Cares
“We want young people to believe in themselves and see that change starts with them,” says Marcel Šaňa, mayor of Košice – Luník IX. The initiative is more than just a clean-up effort; it’s a foundation for lasting community partnerships. The district is working closely with organizations like RESDI, EDUSOC, and Roma for the Future to improve residents’ quality of life.
Bringing Support to Mašličkovo
The initiative extends beyond Luník IX to Mašličkovo, one of the most disadvantaged areas os Luník IX. Under the GRIP – 2024 project we distributed more than 700 kg of eco-friendly briquettes to families before Christmas, providing them with sustainable heating and reducing harmful waste burning.
A Movement for Lasting Change
Luník IX is proving that even the toughest challenges can be met with innovation and determination. By empowering young leaders, fostering education, and promoting sustainability, the district is paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.
