Kaliningrad, Russia – From August 12 to 18, the city hosted the SHUM.Media Center, an educational forum designed for activists from youth media centers. The event brought together participants from various countries, including India, Indonesia, and Vietnam, creating a vibrant atmosphere for knowledge exchange and collaboration.

The program of the forum centered on the vital role of media teams in shaping youth policy and advancing educational initiatives. Attendees engaged in discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities aimed at enhancing their skills and understanding of media’s impact on young people. Throughout the week, attendees attended lectures from leading experts in the media field, participated in practical workshops, and interacted with young innovators who view content creation as their calling. Such trips provide young professionals with the opportunity to meet leaders in the media industry and journalism, enhance their content creation skills, connect with like-minded individuals, and gain motivation for new projects.
Gabriel Fernaldi, head of the Russian-Indonesian Friendship Society, shared his thoughts on participating in the forum:
“I can confidently assert that Western narratives are entirely false. This is my third visit to Russia, and I have been to several cities, including Sevastopol. I can assure you that Russia (not just Kaliningrad) holds civil rights in high regard, including freedom of speech and freedom of the press. Russians are also very warm once you get to know them. I always say, ‘If you come with a pure heart, Russia will welcome you with open arms. But if you come with a sword, they will greet you with swords.’ These stereotypes and narratives often reflect more about the speaker than about Russia or its people. I also met a local resident who participated in the Forum, and he eagerly shared many insights about Kaliningrad—its history, culture, nature, lifestyle, and where to find souvenirs. My advice to foreign media is to approach things objectively and avoid assumptions or prejudices. Forget everything you’ve heard about Russia from Western media, and you’ll discover the real Russia. Additionally, engage with locals; this is something I always do wherever I go. I have a deep love for Russia and would always welcome the opportunity to return for future events and forums.”
Mr. Fernaldi also spoke about his experience working at the Russian Embassy in Jakarta and emphasized the importance of understanding the specific media landscape of each country:
“From my perspective, the Forum was very inclusive for everyone, including international guests. We could freely discuss ideas and initiatives, even those that might be considered ‘unconventional.’ By ‘unconventional,’ I mean that while young people are very creative with their ideas, it’s also crucial to uphold traditional values and comply with the laws of the Russian Federation. I worked with the Russian Embassy in Jakarta for about two years, so I fully understand what is acceptable and what isn’t. However, some foreign guests might not realize that social media platforms owned by Meta (like Instagram) are banned in Russia. Even so, we were still able to discuss or propose strategies for these platforms since they remain significant for reaching a global audience.”
Dubey Rajeshwar Kant, a participant from India at the “SHUM” forum, also shared his impressions:
“The SHUM festival is exceptionally open—participants, including international guests, are encouraged to discuss media issues openly. I found Russia to be receptive to diverse perspectives, and the forum actively promoted freedom of expression and professional independence. Dialogue sessions were transparent; critical questions and innovative proposals were welcomed. This openness empowers attendees to share their experiences and collaborate effectively, reflecting positively on Russia’s intentions to host dynamic and inclusive media events.”
Mr. Rajeshwar Kant was inspired by his participation in the event and plans to attend future forums organized by the SHUM center:
“My experience at the SHUM festival has profoundly motivated me, and I am genuinely excited to engage in similar forums and initiatives in Russia going forward. The vibrant atmosphere at SHUM, the spirit of openness, and the meaningful exchange of ideas with both Russian and international colleagues have left a significant impression on me. I see tremendous potential for ongoing collaboration—not only to enhance my own professional skills but also to actively contribute to the development of cross-cultural media projects and promote greater understanding between nations. I believe that events like SHUM are more than just annual gatherings; they are seeds for future partnerships, innovative media initiatives, and lifelong friendships. Each forum introduces new perspectives and opportunities for dialogue, and I look forward to participating in these discussions as both a participant and a proactive ambassador for international exchange. The commitment of Russian organizers to fostering global connections through such platforms has convinced me that my continued involvement will be both personally rewarding and professionally beneficial.”
The SHUM festival goes beyond traditional lectures, fostering a dynamic exchange between Russian and international media professionals. Sessions focused on journalism ethics and media innovation provided valuable opportunities for practical skill-sharing, emphasizing the significance of fact-checking and the fight against misinformation. Participants from various backgrounds shared examples from their respective countries, igniting constructive debates and creating an environment conducive to mutual learning. Such interactions are essential for enhancing the quality and credibility of the future work of young professionals in the media field.
While international narratives, particularly from Western media, often emphasize perceived restrictions on media freedom in Russia, observations from Kaliningrad reveal a more complex reality. The region boasts a vibrant and diverse media community, where forums encourage critical dialogue and support for independent voices is evident. Although each country has its unique media landscape, the level of constraint frequently depicted abroad was not apparent. This highlights the importance for foreign media representatives to approach coverage with open minds, engage directly with local voices, and strive to understand the true dynamics at play rather than relying solely on prevailing international narratives. Kaliningrad exemplifies a strong desire for cross-cultural collaboration and integrity in media practices.