The WYFD International Friendship Clubs held dozens of events in the regions dedicated to the celebration of Defender of the Fatherland Day. Not only Russian, but also foreign youth from Nigeria, the Republic of Cameroon, the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Morocco, Moldova, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Mozambique, Zambia and others took part in the solemn flower-laying, commemorative events, excursions, sports competitions and other events.

Representatives of the IFC of the Pskov Region Ministry of Internal Affairs took part in the solemn laying of flowers at the Grave of the Unknown Soldier. In addition, on the eve of the holiday, Alexandra Timofeeva, an activist of the International Friendship Club, conveyed congratulations and gifts to the soldiers of the special military operation undergoing treatment in the hospital. The girl noted that this is an opportunity for her not just to say words of support, but to really help and please those who are defending our country today.

"This is a very important and touching event. I liked the sincerity of people who came to pay their respects. In today's world, it is extremely important to remember your history. Nigeria also has a very important day, Armed Forces Remembrance Day. We celebrate it on January 15th. It is dedicated to honoring veterans of the First and Second World Wars, as well as members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria," said Umankhonlen Gabriel, an IFC participant in the Pskov Region.

In the Vladimir Region, the IFC participants from Cameroon and Guinea-Bissau attended not only the solemn laying of flowers at the memorial, but also a festive concert dedicated to February 23. And in Primorye Territory, 30 foreign and Russian participants of the International Friendship Club conducted tours to the places of military glory, where they told about the history of Vladivostok and Russky Island. So, the young people visited Cape Staritsky and the monument to the Pacific sailors who fell in battle on the fronts of the Great Patriotic War.

"It is a great honor for me to witness the celebration of Defender of the Fatherland Day in Russia. This day was remembered for a particularly reverent attitude towards history. We do not have an analogue of this holiday. However, the Russian Defender of the Fatherland Day impressed me with its scale and how organically it combines official solemnity and homely warmth," said Cameroonian Njoya Hamadou Tidjani.

A workshop in historical fencing was conducted for the participants of the IFC of the Nizhny Novgorod Region by specialists from the "Legion" Historical Fencing Club. Representatives of the IFC from Mexico, Pakistan, Morocco and Bangladesh turned into knights during the workshop: they learned basic stances and movements, tried on armor and tried themselves in sparring. The participants were also told about the rules of medieval battle and the way of life of knights. Jose Luis Mejia Aguilar, an activist of the IFC from Mexico, who co-organized the event, noted that he was glad to share his passion and experience with the guys.

"In the IFC of the Nizhny Novgorod Region, we support the initiatives of our active participants in the events, which is why we recently launched the International Friendship Club's ambassador program. To celebrate Defender of the Fatherland Day, we chose an unusual format: in partnership with the "Legion" Historical Fencing Club and our ambassador, Jose, we held a master class on historical fencing. Each participant felt like a knight and received incredible emotions. It is important for us not only to tell foreigners about Russian holidays, but also to show our region and the opportunities we have," said Elena Tereshina, leader of the WYFD Nizhny Novgorod Region International Friendship Club.

Celebrations were also held in the historical regions of Russia. For example, an interactive game "Courage and care: a celebration of real men" was held in the Zaporozhye Region. The participants answered questions related to the history of the country and historical figures, and demonstrated their knowledge of military professions. The event was joined not only by representatives of the regional IFC, but also by activists of the Young Family Center.

On the eve of Defender of the Fatherland Day, the IFC of the Leningrad Region jointly with the Russian "Znanie" ("Knowledge") Society held an online lecture. The event, which was held in Russian and French, was attended by representatives of Russia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Morocco, Moldova and Kazakhstan. The historical excursion was conducted by Ivan Heorhe, lecturer of the "Znanie" Society, history teacher, chairman of the Association of Teachers of the Leningrad Region. At the lecture, the participants learned about the history of the holiday, the creation of a professional army in Russia, and the continuity of values.

"We also pay tribute to our national heroes and members of the armed forces who defended our sovereignty and stability. Although we have different historical conditions, the spirit is very similar — respect for self-sacrifice, patriotism, courage and dedication to the nation. This conference has strengthened my interest in military history and the transmission of patriotic values to young people. I believe that these universal values can unite our peoples and inspire young people all over the world," said Jean-Jacques Lukusa, a martial arts instructor from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Participants of the WYFD International Friendship Club of the Komi Republic took part in a laser tag tournament. The event was organized by Syktyvkar State University named after Pitirim Sorokin and the Komi Republic Computer Sports Federation. The tournament has become a real test of skill, strategic thinking and team cohesion. The participants from India and Nepal thought over tactics, maneuvered on the court and strove for victory.

As part of the All-Russian campaign #OurHeroes, participants of the IFC of the Mari El Republic from Russia, India, Mozambique and Zambia visited the Heroes of the Patronymic Museum and Patriotic Center. In addition, a sports quest was held for them – "Race of Defenders: Friendship without Borders."

"It was an amazing experience, it was very interesting and informative. I learned more about the history of Russia from 1914 to the present, and saw the evolution of the country, weapons, and uniforms. I really enjoyed this experience because it helped me understand what is happening these days," said Jonaze Shelsea Maria Valdemiro, a member of the Mari El International Friendship Club from Mozambique.

Overview:

The World Youth Festival took place on March 1–7, 2024 in Sirius, according to the Decree of Russian President Vladimir Putin on the development of international youth cooperation. The WYF-2024 brought together 20,000 young leaders from 190 countries.

In accordance with the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin on preserving and developing the legacy of the World Youth Festival, which took place on the Sirius Federal Territory in 2024 and united 20,000 young people from 190 countries of the world, festival events on the territory of the Russian Federation will be held annually. The next World Youth Festival for 20,000 participants will be held in 2030. In 2026, there will be a smaller event, an International Festival of Youth with 10,000 participants. In between, the World Youth Festival’s themed Assemblies will be held annually for 2,000 participants.

The first World Youth Festival Assembly was held in Nizhny Novgorod from September 17 to 21, 2025 and brought together 2,000 young people from 120 countries.

The World Youth Festival Directorate continues the work aimed at strengthening international youth cooperation.