Meet the Rise and Reflect Team

My name is Adriyana, and I am from Bulgaria. I participated in the first General Assembly of the EU Children's Participation Platform as a representative of the Bulgarian State Agency for Child Protection. Following that, I was involved in website research. I am currently studying law, and in my free time, I enjoy traveling. I am very passionate about research and social engagement.

My name is Andon, and I am from Bulgaria. I am a mechatronics student, and my biggest passion is robotics, because I love creating intelligent systems that solve real-world problems. I am also deeply interested in politics and youth participation. One issue I truly care about is the mental health and inclusion of children and young people in Europe, as many of them feel unheard and unsupported.

My name is Emanuele and I live in Rome, Italy. I participated in the first General Assembly of the EU Children’s Participation Platform and in some other projects with the Italian Independent Authority for Childhood and Adolescence. More generally, I take participation very seriously and try to do my best to make a difference! I enjoy reading and walking, especially in the countryside.   

My name is Gabrielius and I am from Lithuania. I enjoy cycling and staying active. I care deeply about defending democracy and children’s rights. Due to my experience as a member of the Children’s Panel and Advisory Board, I can help others understand the Platform and its different areas.

I am James from Ireland. I care about disability rights, inclusion and equal access. I can help others advocate for themselves and be heard. I have spoken at international events and work to promote youth participation. 

My name is Jan, and I come from Zagreb, Croatia. I was involved with the Ombudswoman for Children in Croatia through my teenage years, so the Platform has been a great opportunity for me to continue advocating for greater participation of children in issues that affect them. Within the group, my ability is to communicate with everyone and help bring us together on issues we all care deeply about.

My name is Maria and I’m from Bulgaria. I believe young people should have a real role in shaping the decisions that affect their lives. My experience with the Platform showed me that meaningful dialogue between young people and decision-makers is possible. I want to help more young people to share their perspectives, contribute ideas, and make a difference in shaping a more inclusive future.

My name is Naya. I am an ambassador with Save the Children, a member of the Youth Board of Missing Children Europe and have been involved in this Platform since 2022. I care that children’s voices are heard, especially on topics like discrimination, inclusion, and children with a refugee background. Being born in Syria and now living in the Netherlands has strongly shaped my perspective and motivation.

My name is Cath and I live in France.  I have been helping the Platform in different ways for the last three years, like facilitating the Advisory Board meetings. I care about lots of things, including making sure all children in Europe get a chance to influence the government policies that affect their lives. I love to go cycling and I love music If you want help with editing sound, I can help. 

My name is Deborah. I am a researcher in the UK for children and young people's participation and inclusion. I care about what happens to children and young people in the world and working together to make it a better place. I love to go walking in the countryside and mountains. I also do creative things like painting and decorative textiles, and I can help with making films or interactive media.

My name is Tamsin. I'm from Yorkshire, in the UK. I love being creative and running in the countryside with my dog. I care about inequality and injustice. I'm especially interested in young people's lives and voices and in issues related to mental health and wellbeing. I can help other people with illustrations.