As part of the broader Icehearts Europe initiative, Slovenia’s pilot program has proven to be a powerful example of how mentoring can transform the lives of children and youth from vulnerable backgrounds. Icehearts in Slovenia has successfully demonstrated a strong connection between physical activity and emotional and social development.

Sport as a Way of Belonging and Personal Growth

In Slovenia, the Icehearts model has been locally adapted into a comprehensive support system that offers a wide range of activities—from basketball, volleyball, and judo to skiing, swimming, and inline hockey—that go hand in hand with the development of basic motor skills and emotional regulation. 

One of the unique features of the Slovenian pilot is the “Let the Love Win” room, equipped with a punching bag, exercise mats, and posters displaying goals and step-by-step guidance, helping children reflect on their feelings. This room encourages healthy physical expression and self-reflection in a safe space. Mentors support children through a simple process: recognizing feelings, releasing anger safely and calming down through talk and self-reflection. The goal is to help children manage emotions constructively, build self-awareness, and develop empathy.

Beyond day-to-day activities, the program also includes winter camps and family-focused events, creating a safe and welcoming environment where children can develop social skills, form lasting friendships, and gain confidence. The model promotes not only physical health but also resilience, cooperation, and emotional intelligence.

Children’s Voices Reflect Impact

The feedback from participants has been undeniably positive. Children expressed feeling more confident, improved emotional well-being, and a stronger sense of belonging.

“I am very grateful for the support. I didn’t know how to do a somersault, but through the Icehearts project, I learned how to do it. I received support and didn’t feel left out. At the Day Center, they always help me with my schoolwork and provide support if I’m struggling with something. This helps me become more efficient and persistent.”

Another young participant shared his heartwarming experience:

“The Day Center gives me love and helps a lot with my homework. I feel safe, secure and supported while spending nice time with my favorite friends. In general, it has also helped me become more responsible at home and handle tough situations more easily.”

Strength in Collaboration

One of the things that contributed to the success of Icehearts in Slovenia was strong, coordinated partnerships between mentors, schools, local sports clubs, social work centres, and day centres. Regular communication—including phone calls, emails, and structured meetings—enabled the team to respond swiftly to the evolving needs of each child.

Mentors played a key role, offering more than just sports coaching. They provided emotional and social support on a daily basis. Meanwhile, collaboration with social workers helped target resources toward children most at risk of social exclusion. Partnerships with sports clubs and local community hubs ensured continued engagement outside the program, reinforcing each child’s sense of belonging in their broader environment.

Looking Ahead

Slovenia’s Icehearts Europe model stays true to the core values of the original Finnish approach: long-term support, inclusion, trust, and community. The pilot shows that combining physical activity with caring mentorship and a safe environment can lead to the real change.