Resilience isn’t just a buzzword, not for the cities threading their way through economic instability, natural disasters, and the aftershocks of a global pandemic. For small and mid-sized cities, resilience is survival—an ability to absorb the impact of disruption and emerge not just intact but stronger. But resilience comes at a cost, and for many local governments, securing the funds to fortify infrastructure, invest in renewable energy, or prepare for the unexpected feels like an insurmountable challenge.

In December 2023, we embarked on a heartwarming journey with children aged 4 to 7 to create something truly special. Sparked by the imagination and empathy of the youngest minds from the kindergarten class at Buurtschool V-TEX in Kortrijk, we crafted a book project with a mission: to bring joy to others. Their goal? To make a difference for peers in war zones suffering from post-traumatic stress.

My dear friend Katarzyna Nadia Walczak has been inspiring many with her Instagram profile dedicated to simple, sustainable habits for everyday life. This topic resonates deeply with me, and her words often feel like a soothing melody for the eco-conscious soul.