Here I am

Another project at the hackathon explored how young people ages 13 to 17 from the Germany–Poland–Czech Republic border regionand the Czech Republic can better connect with one another and, in the process, be made aware of topics such as democracy, politics, and cultural understanding in a playful way—without it feeling like traditional educational work to them.

The goal is to promote interaction among young people from the three countries, overcome language barriers, and strengthen awareness of shared interests. The project aims to reduce the potential for conflict, foster mutual understanding, and provide hands-on experience with democratic ways of thinking and problem-solving. The foundation for this is a multi-part digital platform whose central elements consist of an interactive mobile game, a digital conflict-resolution tool, creative language-learning activities, and a regional chat module.

The mobile game imparts cultural knowledge about the three countries—ranging from simple questions about flags or distances to more complex tasks involving literature or history. Depending on the level, collaboration with peers from another country is necessary to solve challenges. A shared whiteboard tool allows users to discuss real-life conflict situations and develop creative solutions—based on different perspectives and cultural backgrounds.

In addition, the platform offers simple, humorous language-learning activities, short stories with hidden messages, and a moderated chat—with an automatic translation feature—to facilitate safe, multilingual communication. Twice a year, culminating youth camps are held where all elements of the platform are brought together in person—under a unifying theme like music, which knows no borders.

The platform is aimed directly at young people and is promoted via social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. Before its launch, it is tested in collaboration with educators and includes safeguards against inappropriate behavior. The focus is not on competition, but on learning and experiencing things together—an approach that is more necessary than ever in today’s complex reality.