Dear organizers,
My name is Kruchinkina Elena, I am a 9th grade student from Ichalki. I am applying as an Individual Participant in the School Diplomacy Clubs because I believe that diplomacy starts with knowing your own culture and learning how to share it respectfully with others.
Growing up in Mordovia, I have seen how traditions, stories, and values shape people’s sense of belonging. In our school, I created a small “Cultural Post” where students can share one interesting fact about their family, village, or ethnic background. I made the first posts myself and wrote them in both Russian and English, so that non Russian speakers could also understand the stories. This helped break the ice and showed that even simple stories can build bridges.
As an individual participant, I take full responsibility for the process: I plan the topics, write the texts, moderate the comments, and follow up with students to see if they’d like to share more. I also organize 15 minute “mini dialogues” during breaks, where we discuss one question, like “What does fairness mean in your family?” or “How do you show respect in your community?” These conversations are short, but they give students a safe space to practice expressing their views and listening to others.
English is my tool for sharing these stories beyond my school. I’ve learned that diplomacy isn’t just about big speeches—it’s about choosing the right words, being clear, and showing respect. My goal in the Movement is to expand this idea: to create a small digital collection of “one minute stories” from students in different regions, with English summaries. I am ready to lead this project as an individual participant and collaborate with other clubs to make it happen.
I believe that the values of the Movement—initiative, responsibility, and mutual respect—match my approach to diplomacy. I want to use my voice to help others find theirs.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Kruchinkina Elena
