A meeting with stakeholders was held in the space of just transformation to discuss the creation of a new strategy and branding for the city.

The practical stage of the international EUMINDA project, aimed at improving policies for the transition from coal mining to sustainable development, has begun.

The purpose of this and subsequent meetings is to prepare specific initiatives and proposals that will form the basis for a new development strategy for Sheptytskyi and the creation of a modern city brand. The work in the format of a moderated discussion brought together representatives of the city council, deputies, public and religious organizations for a joint analysis of the challenges of transformation. According to the project methodology, such events will become regular throughout the project implementation period. This will allow for maintaining a constant dialogue and quickly developing solutions based on local experience and the vision of key stakeholders.

During the discussion, participants focused on how to learn to listen to the community better and put the needs of residents at the center of all changes. In particular, they discussed how to integrate displaced persons who already associate their future with Sheptytskyi, and how to stimulate local business and attract new entrepreneurs to the community.

Special attention was paid to how the new branding should emphasize Sheptytsky’s identity. Participants spoke candidly about the city’s “pains”: ecology, water and air quality, as well as social challenges — the departure of young people and the need for new jobs.

We sincerely thank the representatives of the City Institute and Kateryna Zablotska personally for presenting the project and opening up new opportunities for the sustainable development of our community.