Epicenter of Creativity and Activism in Eastern Serbia: 15 Years of the Youth Center Zaječar

In the heart of Eastern Serbia, from Negotin to Niš, there is only one place that for nearly 15 years has served as a sanctuary for young people, artists, and activists - the Youth Center Zaječar. More than just a venue, this center has become a symbol of creativity, freedom of expression, and social change. Its impact isn't measured merely by the number of events held, but by the generations of young people who found inspiration, support, and a chance to create something new.

Since 2011, the Youth Center has welcomed thousands of young participants through more than 500 concerts, 250 film screenings, 80 humanitarian actions, 140 cultural events, 70 public debates, and nearly 1,000 workshops. These numbers tell a story not just of volume, but of an independent space that has nurtured talent, sparked movements, and connected people of diverse interests and passions. In a time when spaces for youth are shrinking, the Youth Center remains an open platform for dialogue and creation.

Over the years, many music bands, art collectives, and civic initiatives found their first performance stage here - their first opportunity to share ideas publicly, to grow before an audience from Zaječar and the broader Eastern Serbia region. Music compilations were recorded, collections of creative writing were published, and initiatives that became part of the wider cultural scene were born. The Youth Center wasn’t just a witness to these processes—it was their foundation and driving force.

Future in the making

The Youth Center isn’t slowing down. It plans to continue expanding its offerings, opening up to new ideas, artistic expressions, and youth activism. Its mission remains the same - to give every young person the opportunity to create, express themselves, and leave a mark on their community.