Lighthouse of Knowledge 2022

Dear friends and donors,

We are excited to share the latest update from the Lighthouse of Knowledge project, as we move from preparation into full momentum ahead of the 9th generation of the program, launching this September.

Since March, our team has been working intensively across three fronts: mapping the communities we serve, growing a thriving alumni network, and deepening our partnerships on the ground. Together, these efforts are building a stronger, more connected foundation for the program's biggest generation yet.

Key progress highlights:

• Community mapping across Serbia
  We conducted an in-depth mapping of the communities where the program operates, identifying local needs, potential partners, and opportunities for youth engagement. This groundwork is ensuring that the 9th generation reaches the right students, in the right places, with the right kind of support.
• Growing the alumni network into a driving force
  Building on the strong foundation of eight previous generations, our alumni network now counts over 500 young people. We have actively developed this network, reconnecting former participants, activating them as mentors and ambassadors, and creating new channels for them to stay engaged with the program and with each other. This growing community is becoming one of the program's greatest assets, carrying its impact forward year after year.
• Promotion and visibility through local partners
  We have worked closely with partner organizations to promote the program at the local level, expanding our reach into new communities and reinforcing the program's credibility and relevance across Serbia.
• Finalization of new thematic tracks
  The newly introduced tracks, focused on community innovation, digital creativity, and future-ready skills — have been fully developed and integrated into the program framework.
• Pilot testing of the redesigned project development process
  We tested the updated approach with a smaller group of participants and mentors, emphasizing local problem validation before scaling solutions. Initial feedback has been highly positive and is already shaping our final adjustments.
• Expansion and activation of the mentor network
  New mentors with diverse professional backgrounds have been onboarded, and the first round of matching and engagement has begun, ensuring stronger, more tailored support for participants.
• Outreach and recruitment strategy for the new generation
  With community mapping, alumni engagement, and partner promotion feeding directly into our outreach efforts, we have refreshed our communication approach to attract a new generation of motivated high school students across Serbia.

This has been a pivotal phase, one where planning turned into action, and where every insight gathered is directly shaping a program ready to welcome its 9th generation this September. With a mapped community, a 500-strong alumni network, and strong local partnerships behind it, the Lighthouse of Knowledge is entering its next chapter stronger than ever.

As we move forward, our focus remains on delivering a program that empowers youth to create meaningful change in their communities, now with even stronger tools, support systems, and opportunities.

Thank you for your continued support and trust.

With appreciation,
The ASK team