Just a little over three weeks are left until the brightest event of spring – the long-awaited meeting with "Artek"! The kids from Belarus, who received tickets to the International Children's Center for winning the "People of Artek" contest, are fully preparing for their trip. The journey to Crimea will be an unforgettable adventure for them – students will have the opportunity to rest in "Artek" in the significant year of its centenary.

What thoughts do the Belarusian kids have while getting ready to go to "Artek", and what do they expect from the 6th international shift "One Hundred Years ofChildhood"? We asked a few lucky winners.

Maria Antipova, Mogilev  

Since the announcement of the contest results, there hasn't been a day without thoughts of "Artek." I can’t wait for the moment of arrival at the camp. During this time, I have imagined new friends whom I will meet, and the nature whose beauty I will enjoy, a thousand times. And I am excited about meeting the sea! I have always dreamed of being at the sea, even just to see it in person, as photos can’t compare to real impressions.  

I am thoroughly planning my trip: I watch videos online, prepare documents, and study information about the camps, squads, and traditions. I really want to bring back something memorable from Crimea, so I will definitely buy various souvenirs and branded clothes.  

Just the thought that I will really become an Artekitemakes my heart skip a beat. All that's left is to wait and be happy that it will happen!

Polina Mamchits, Minsk  

I still can’t believe that my dream of "Artek" will come true. When I told my friends about winning the contest, they immediately got motivated to compete for a chance to visit "Artek" next year. After all, what could be more wonderful than such a trip!?  

Right now, I’m reading a lot about "Artek." This includes reviews from kids and information about different camps and attractions in Crimea. I can already imagine how our squad will climb Mount Ayu-Dag, sit by the campfire at dawn, sing Artek songs together, and visit Sevastopol, the Livadia Palace, and many other excursions. I am incredibly happy and counting the days until the trip begins.

Alexander and Alexey Kozeka, Belozyorsk  

My brother and I are eagerly preparing for our first trip to the legendary "Artek." This event is especially significant for us, as this year "Artek" celebrates its 100th anniversary!  

To get to the camp, we are diligently preparing for early exams at school. This requires quite an effort from us, but the desire to spend time in "Artek" gives us extra motivation.  

We are also actively preparing all the documents, making a checklist of items to take on the trip, and paying special attention to studying the history and traditions of "Artek." This will help us better understand the spirit of the camp and feel like part of its large and friendly family.  

We are sure that the trip to "Artek" will be truly unforgettable! We are going there to spend time productively, make new friends, see the beauty of the sea and mountains, and gather knowledge, strength, and inspiration. Until we meet again, "Artek"!