From 12 to 14 June 2025, Zagreb hosted and welcomed international philosophers, educators, and researchers to the 18th International Conference on Philosophical Practice (ICPP) at the Faculty of Philosophy and Religious Studies, where thinkers from around the world gathered to explore the transformative power of philosophy. Among the standout contributions was the Young Minds project, which took part in a dynamic lecture on ethical dialogue and philosophical inquiry. This session was followed by an interactive workshop that used a European film to engage high school students in exploring their self-image, resilience, and the challenges of adolescence. The workshop offered a unique space for students to reflect on their experiences and deepen their understanding of philosophy in the context of real-world issues. Find out how the Young Minds approach is blending philosophy, dialogue, and film to spark meaningful change and foster conversations about youth wellbeing across cultures.
A Lecture Rooted in Real Experiences
At the 18th International Conference on Philosophical Practice, Bruno Ćurko and Filip Škifić delivered an insightful presentation titled “Ethical Dialogue and Philosophical Inquiry with Children: Practices from the Field.” They explored how philosophy can be used in real-world settings to spark meaningful dialogue around important themes such as solidarity, freedom, mental health, and identity. Through practical examples, they showcased how philosophical thinking can be a powerful tool for young people to reflect on their own lives and the world around them. Drawing from the Young Minds methodology, their approach illustrated how philosophical inquiry not only encourages personal growth but also nurtures a sense of social responsibility and empathy. By guiding students through philosophical questioning, they demonstrated how this practice helps young minds navigate complex issues, think critically about their beliefs, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in society. The session offered the audience a rich perspective on the potential of philosophy as a catalyst for personal transformation and social change.
“Mirror, Mirror”: A Workshop to Spark Self-Reflection
The Young Minds team also led an interactive workshop, “Mirror, Mirror: What Do You Want to See?” designed to encourage high school students to dive deep into their self-image and resilience. This thought-provoking session invited participants to engage in open discussions about self-esteem and personal growth, creating a safe and supportive space for reflection. Through guided conversations with experts in philosophical counselling and psychotherapy, students were encouraged to explore their own identities, challenge societal pressures, and develop a stronger sense of self-awareness. The workshop sparked meaningful dialogues, allowing students to gain new insights into their emotional landscapes and find practical ways to build resilience in their everyday lives.
The session also featured the film Mirrors, directed by Paul Jernda from Sweden. The 3-minute 20-second film follows Anis, Cecilia, and Danny as they meet their mirror images and confront their worst self-critical thoughts. The film aims to highlight the importance of mental health and the power of daring to share one’s feelings and thoughts. Through this introspective journey, it draws attention to issues like self-esteem, negative self-talk, and the crucial role of mental health literacy, self-care strategies, and compassion in fostering emotional wellbeing.
This video is one of several being used in the Young Minds project to support students’ emotional and social development. All the films, including Mirrors, will be made available in a comprehensive booklet and on the project’s website, Young Minds Project, ensuring that valuable resources for improving self-esteem and mental health are accessible to a wider audience.
Learning Through Exchange
The conference in Zagreb was far more than just a series of lectures and workshops; it served as an inspiring platform for deep connections, rich exchanges, and collaborative growth. It brought together professionals from diverse fields, creating an environment where ideas flowed freely, and new perspectives were shared. For the Young Minds project, this was an invaluable opportunity to engage with experts, educators, and practitioners who are passionate about the role of philosophy in shaping the future of youth. The feedback gathered throughout the event was not only constructive but also energising, offering fresh insights that will help refine and elevate the Young Minds methodology. These exchanges have provided a clearer direction for how to deepen the project’s impact, ensuring that it continues to resonate with young people across Europe. The lessons learned and the partnerships forged will help expand the reach of Young Minds, empowering even more youth to explore their identity, challenge their assumptions, and ultimately contribute to a more thoughtful and resilient society.
Knowing more about the conference
To learn more about the 18th International Conference on Philosophical Practice (ICPP 2025), visit the official conference website.
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