During 1-4 July, Slovenia hosted the second edition of IMEX Challenge 2012, an event intended to provide support to local communities. This year, the aim of the campaign was to cooperate in restoring the land around the training, educational and rehabilitation centre for the mentally impaired, intended for the construction of a traditional Slovenian bee house.Following the launch of the first IMEX Challenge project in 2010, The Poland Convention Bureau of the Polish Tourist Organisation supported this year’s edition as well. Support on Poland’s behalf was also provided by Seweryn Jakubiec, the representative of ICP Group S.A. which is recommended by the Poland Convention Bureau.
Volunteers from 9 countries spent 3 days constructing the building and the fences, and re-shaping the areas that surround the facility. Additional activities included active participation in the daily life of the centre, with various games for children aimed at fostering their artistic capabilities, and culinary workshops. A special sub-theme programme on beekeeping was developed for children, and the secrets behind the production of honey, which has a thousand-year-long tradition in Slovenia.
The attendees at IMEX Challenge 2012 also had the opportunity to learn about local tourist attractions and the region’s history. Their hard work was rewarded with the sight of smiling faces and the gratitude of the children and employees. We are looking forward to the next IMEX Challenge event, due to take place in 2014.
