Storytelling Bootcamp in Stockholm

The Resilient Threads project recently concluded an intensive two-day bootcamp in Stockholm as part of its ongoing mission to foster intercultural dialogue and artistic empowerment. Twenty emerging artists gathered at the Etnografiska museet during February 2026 for a rigorous program centered on storytelling, creative writing, and cross-cultural collaboration. This cohort included ten Romani youth from various European Union countries and ten participants primarily from Sweden. The specialized sessions allowed these young creatives to refine their professional skills while building foundational networks for future international cooperation within the cultural and social sectors.

The inaugural day of the program focused on the technical foundations of narrative construction and stage presence. Industry experts facilitated workshops that included structural writing techniques with Robin Szappo and specialized theater exercises with Maria Lindeberg of Smart Coop. These exercises were designed to enhance physical expression and performance confidence. Kiki Tsaltampasi from the PAL network also provided essential training on public speaking and methods for overcoming performance anxiety. A curated visit to the museum’s Sagovärldar exhibition complemented these sessions by providing a global context for the storytelling traditions the participants were working to modernize.

The second phase of the bootcamp transitioned from theory toward creative production. An exploratory session of the Japanese Yokai exhibition stimulated lateral thinking before participants moved into their final writing blocks. Under the continued guidance of Robin Szappo, the artists finalized their original scripts and participated in the recording of a dedicated podcast series. The significance of the gathering was further underscored by the presence of the Romer i Stockholm community and Radio Romano. Representatives from these organizations conducted interviews with the artists and highlighted the project’s role in elevating underrepresented voices within the broader media landscape.

The event concluded with a formal showcase in the Etnografiska museet’s auditorium.

Participants presented their completed works and this final demonstration of skill and emotional resonance served as a precursor to a series of Storytelling Nights planned across Europe.

The Resilient Threads bootcamp was co-funded by the European Union and successfully demonstrated that targeted investments in youth development can produce tangible social connectivity and artistic excellence.

Disclaimer: Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or Myndigheten för ungdoms- och civilsamhällesfrågor (MUCF). Neither the European Union or MUCF can be held responsible for them. (2023-1-SE01-KA220-VET-000155330)