Creativity and professionalism were keywords on the Sofia Conference. There were inspiring workshops, excellent videoproductions on what is going in the field of artwork in European Prisons, and the various drama performances were magnificent. Especially ex.convict Mike Diamonds performance, playing his own songs, made a great impression on me.

Personally I think the "highlight" of the Conference was the full day trip to Lovech. We got to see some of Bulgaria's beautiful countryside, and the visit to Lovech Prison School where Valentina works was very interesting. What really "made the day" was of course the fantastic drama performed by Inmates in Lovech Prison. Even though I didn't understand a word of what was said during the show, the acting was so good that I was able to follow the plot anyway. I really had a good laugh. Later we visited the Inmate Art Exhibition that is being build up at the moment.

I think the conference was a big success. The program consisted of a good mix of activities and still there was time in between to "network" Personally I returned from the conference with a lot of inspiration and new ideas I can use in my daily work.

Last but not least I am so impressed that Valentina managed to plan and implement this very successful conference - that is really an accomplishment.

Niels Bak
Prison teacher at Sdr. Omme State Prison
Denmark

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