The Open Hearts Foundation has announced the successful completion of the international project “Friends Without Borders. Poland–Kazakhstan: Language, Culture, a Shared Future”, which was implemented from October through the end of December, DKNews.kz reports.
The initiative brought together young people from Poland and representatives of the Polish diaspora in Kazakhstan, creating a platform for dialogue, creativity, and cultural exchange through a shared language.
Language as a bridge between countries
All activities within the project were conducted in the Polish language. Participants took part in joint educational, media, and cultural initiatives that helped them strengthen their language skills while gaining a deeper understanding of each other’s traditions and cultural backgrounds.
Over the course of the project, participants created:
- video materials and reports,
- podcasts,
- artistic works,
- media content documenting collaboration between Polish and Kazakh youth.
These creative outputs became a reflection of genuine dialogue and shared perspectives on the future.
Shared experience and new connections
According to the organizers, the project’s greatest value lay not only in education, but in direct personal interaction. Young participants worked in international teams, exchanged ideas, and discussed identity, culture, and the role of youth in today’s world.
The Open Hearts Foundation expressed sincere gratitude to all participants for their openness, enthusiasm, and willingness to collaborate.
The role of project partners
Special thanks were extended to the project’s partners, whose support made the initiative possible in both countries. These included:
- the Union of Poles in Kazakhstan,
- the Blessed Priest Władysław Bukowiński Polish School in Karaganda,
- the Karaganda Regional Association of Poles “Polonia”,
- the Marcin Popiel Catholic Secondary School in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.
Their involvement ensured smooth organization and active participation throughout the project.
Supported at the national level
The project was co-financed by the Institute for the Development of the Polish Language using funds from Poland’s state budget. It became part of broader efforts to promote the Polish language and strengthen ties with the Polish diaspora abroad.
Why it matters
Projects like this demonstrate how cultural and linguistic diplomacy can build strong, lasting connections between countries. Through collaboration and creativity, young people from Poland and Kazakhstan not only preserve cultural heritage but also lay the foundation for future educational, cultural, and professional cooperation.
