LocationsPortraits of five young artists trying to break barriers through their work
Creating connection: How Young Artists in North Macedonia Are Bridging Divides Through Art
August 11, 2025
In urban alleys, community theaters, and digital platforms, young artists are reshaping what it means to be a changemaker in North Macedonia. Whether through graffiti, comic strips, music or humor, these young people are using creativity to challenge stereotypes, celebrate diversity, and build trust in their communities.
In Bitola, а graffiti artist, Dragan Milovanov, uses street art to bring color in urban spaces. His work not only beautifies the places but also inspires a collective consciousness about environmental and social issues.
”Street art has the power to transcend social barriers and bring together people from all walks of life. It serves as a powerful platform for connecting and engaging different communities, fostering dialogue and collaboration across social, gender, and ethnic lines.” Dragan Milovanov
The arts can also be a way to tell our stories as a society, express what matters to us, reflect on our worldview, and make sense of complex issues. By promoting Macedonian music on the international stage, singer-songwriter Dina Jashari, is a prime example of how the arts can be a vehicle for peace and mutual understanding. Her sound has won awards and captivated audiences across the Balkans and Europe. Dina’s approach to songwriting highlights the importance of living fully and drawing from personal experiences, allowing her music to resonate deeply with diverse audiences.
”The best way to represent a country is through culture. I notice that I have listeners from various ages, lifestyles, and backgrounds. It makes me very happy when I see a diverse audience at my concert, as it means that my music is universal and has reached different people. It gives meaning to what I do.” Dina Jashari
Izabela Jakimova, actress and animator, similarly believes that performing arts can be a powerful educational tool. By creating plays that tackle sensitive issues such as peer violence and online safety, Izabela’s work contributes to building a more understanding and compassionate society, both directly and indirectly:
”With every project, I incorporate breaking stereotypes and fighting discrimination, in subtle ways. For instance, by simply having children of diverse backgrounds—whether Albanian, Romani, Macedonian, or others—hold hands in a circle, we naturally dissolve barriers. Their sincere interactions demonstrate that hatred is learned, not inherent.” Isabela Jakimova
Her colleague Stefan Nikolovski is fighting stereotypes through humor. This young actor and stand-up comedian is trying to make changes in the local community by making people laugh.
“The art does not recognize frontiers, we all laugh and cry in the same language. The comedy breaks barriers – when people laugh about some stereotypes, they laugh at themselves in the mirror.” Stefan Nikolovski
Studies show that participating in the arts boosts psychological well-being, improves physical health, strengthens social connections, and encourages healthier behaviors and skill development[1]. Young people are often viewed as passive recipients rather than active contributors in the creation and implementation of policies. Typically, they have limited opportunities to shape the policies that directly impact their lives. A recent study in North Macedonia shows a growing pessimism among youth regarding their place in society. Despite this, 40% remain hopeful about the potential for positive change in the country[2].
Dreaming of leaving a mark behind, and something that will be remembered, high school student and comic artist Angela Petrushevska from Veles, could be considered one of them. As a young artist with a bright future, she is already on the path to leaving her mark.
”I was drawn to comics by the freedom of expression and the space they offer, as I love to tell stories. I created a comic addressing Roma discrimination, which won first place, and another focused on inter-Balkan relations, showcasing our shared culture and history. It doesn’t matter what ethnicity you come from, but what kind of person you are.” Angela Petrushevska
Adolescents make up approximately twelve percent of North Macedonia’s population—about 247,000 young people aged 10 to 19[3]. Investing in them will open the door to a transformative ripple effect. From street art to comics, theater to song writing, these young artists are not only shaping the cultural landscape but also paving the way for peace, reconciliation and trust-building.
Ten interviews with inspiring young people were published by the youth media portal Fakulteti.mk in the framework of the project ”Youth 4 Inclusion, Equality & Trust” in 2024. The regional project aims to promote constructive narratives, social cohesion and intercultural understanding among young people. The project is implemented by UNDP, UNFPA, UNESCO and UN Women with support of the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund.
Article written by: Isabella Tanevski & Ivana Petrovska
[1] 9789289054553-eng.pdf (who.int)
[2] Fourth study of socio-political participation of youth in North Macedonia | Westminster Foundation for Democracy (wfd.org)
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