Bettina lives in Neukirchen in the Ore Mountains and works in the volunteer editorial team. Bettina has been a volunteer since 2024 and contributes her valuable volunteering experience to Kulturhauptstadt gGmbH. A former bank clerk, she previously worked as a hardware and software developer.
On 8 October 2025, the starting signal was given for five days full of music, art, discussions and action - organised by young people for young people between the ages of 14 and 26. I was there for the opening, together with other volunteers.
For five days, everything revolved around music, art, discussions, sport and creative design. Each day had its own theme, so there really was something for everyone.
The energy was palpable as soon as we arrived - everyone was motivated, but there was still a lot to do: setting up stands, preparing craft materials, checking the technology, laying out information material and much more.
Our task as volunteers was to greet the guests at the entrance, take their details and hand them visitor passes and food vouchers. With around 80 young people registered, one thing was clear: it was going to be lively! The event started at 12 noon sharp, and thanks to good organisation, there were hardly any queues. Whenever a tram arrived, things got a little turbulent, but everyone was relaxed and helpful.
A special highlight: in addition to the registered participants, there were also many spontaneous visitors. They were easily registered and were able to join in straight away. Some were significantly younger or older than the target group - they simply wanted to take a look at what moves young people and what visions they have for the future in the East.
The motto of the opening day was ROOTS - OstVISION. The kick-off started at 1 p.m. with the OstVISION crew and musical accompaniment from LennArt.
The focus was on dialogue with the younger generation: what are their wishes, ideas and visions for the future in the East? There were various working groups, panel discussions with political decision-makers - including Minister Petra Köpping - and fish bowl discussions on the survey results.
Everything took place in a relaxed, respectful atmosphere. While making mobile phone chains, screen printing or playing basketball, it was easy to exchange ideas, gather new ideas and meet like-minded people. Outside, there was the opportunity to try your hand at graffiti with Markus and Tim and create your own colourful visions - and maybe even discover a new hobby.
Real highlights: Admission was free and all participants received free food and drinks. A dance show by Passion Life and a party with DJs in the evening created a great atmosphere.
After my shift, I visited the "Asphalt Poetry" exhibition as part of the Betonblühen festival. Pictures, short stories and poems about concrete and asphalt were on display here - created by teenagers, young adults and volunteers from the Capital of Culture.
For me, it was a day full of energy, dialogue and creativity - the Betonblühen Festival showed how lively young culture is in the East.
