‘SI Leader Lab provided me with new collaboration opportunities and creative approaches’

PEN Belarus is dedicated to fostering creativity while advocating for human rights within the cultural sector of Belarus. As a human rights organization with a special focus on writers and cultural figures, PEN Belarus monitors and documents violations of human and cultural rights.

‘Our core mission revolves around the development and promotion of Belarusian culture, upholding freedom of expression, and protecting the rights of writers, journalists, and literary professionals,’ Iryna says.

With funding from the Swedish Institute’s Creative Partnerships Programme, PEN Belarus is working to rebuild the Belarusian literary landscape following the 2020 uprising. With independent culture suppressed and many in exile, PEN Belarus aims to collaborate on current cultural initiatives, promote cultural and human rights, explore new literary opportunities and the possibilities for bypassing censorship, and reach audiences both in Belarus and abroad.

To help her navigate the challenges that PEN Belarus faces, Iryna applied to SI Leader Lab to strengthen her leadership skills and build new partnerships.

‘Participating in SI Leader Lab has been immensely valuable,’ she says. ‘The programme provided me with new knowledge, collaboration opportunities, and creative approaches that are essential for enhancing our advocacy efforts.’

Another key takeaway for Iryna was the opportunity for reflection.

‘During the course, I had substantial time for reflection, and the issues that were raised and discussed will undoubtedly lead to improvements in our operations,’ she says. ‘We were provided with valuable tools for creative thinking, which we definitely plan to implement in our projects and advocacy campaigns. These tools have broadened my horizons and equipped me as a manager with innovative approaches to tackling challenges.’

The intensive week in Stockholm was an important part of the Leader Lab experience. Iryna worked with peers from different countries, gaining insights into how they address similar issues in their own contexts.

‘The programme was great for building a strong community among us participants. It’s a big win because now I have a network of people I can easily contact for help or advice, and I know they’ll support me.’

Iryna encourages other civil society leaders to apply to SI Leader Lab: ‘It’s not only interesting and educational but also fun and reflective. The atmosphere is friendly and warm, with all participants treating each other with respect.’