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The M.Art initiative, which has evolved from the annual governor’s award for creative youth previously known as “Youth of the Belgorod Region,” now offers financial grants designed to bring the imaginative visions of young authors to life.

Among the winners from Belgorod National Research University (BelSU) are several promising projects. The “School of Leaders” team has been awarded a grant for their art laboratory project titled “Fates of a Frontline City.” Eduard��Biryukov, a student at the BelSU Institute of Economics and Management, received funding for his project “Vezelka River. Live Sound. Children – Youth.” Additionally, Polina Semenova, a student from the BelSU Institute of Social Sciences and Mass Communications, was recognized for her media project “31 Facets of Culture.” Sofia Zharkova, an activist from the Primary Trade Union Organization, also secured support for her feature documentary film project titled “Transformation.”

The art laboratory project aims to facilitate psychological and cultural rehabilitation for residents of border areas and SVO participants. It consists of two interconnected components: group art therapy sessions led by professional psychologists and a creative segment that will culminate in a theatrical performance based on real-life stories from participants. Actors, dancers, vocalists from youth student groups, and members of the art therapy sessions will all contribute to this powerful production.

“The performance will serve as a living testament to the fates, fortitude, and heroism of our contemporaries,” shared Snezhana Kondakova, head of the School of Presenters’ team and author of the project. “We will also produce a series of podcasts featuring true stories from soldiers and civilians, preserving their voices and adding a personal dimension to our collective memory.”

This project plays a vital role in preserving historical memory and fostering respect for those who defended the Fatherland and those caught in armed conflict. Through art, dialogue, and empathy, it aims to restore psychological well-being, strengthen identity, and unite the youth community around values of mutual support, patriotism, and civic responsibility.

Eduard Biryukov's project, “Vezelka River. Live Sound. Children – Youth,” initially started as a children’s music competition but was transformed last year into a musical television project with support from the Ministry of Youth Affairs of the Belgorod Region.

“We introduced a second track called 'Youth' to expand our age range,” Eduard explained. “Our alumni have participated in nationwide projects like 'Voice. Children.' As we brainstormed further developments for the project, we decided to embark on a short tour with participants and include an educational segment featuring leading figures from the music industry and performing arts.”

Polina Semenova's media project “31 Facets of Culture” aims to create a series of short vertical videos that showcase the cultural life, institutions, and creative individuals in Belgorod. Targeting residents aged 14 to 30, the project seeks to engage its audience in fresh ways.

“I want our content to extend beyond typical social media posts,” Polina commented. “We plan to introduce culture through not just our videos but also by organizing excursions that provide deeper insights into our local artistic landscape.”

The “Transformation” project aims to rekindle an appreciation for the true value of student life – not merely as a stepping stone toward a diploma, but as a vital period for developing the skills necessary to cultivate a well-rounded personality.

“By weaving together personal stories, archival materials, and insightful reports, this project will inspire a new generation of students to embrace an active, conscious, and enriching university experience,” emphasized Sofya Zharkova.