Maxim Schmekov (Apprentice)

I’m Maxim — a curious human being and facilitator working with civil society and communities. My path has taken me through Eastern Partnership countries and Central Asia, where I helped design learning spaces and international dialogue platforms. Coming from an oppressive environment, the work for communities and for people has always been deeply real and personal for me. My lived experience and ongoing personal transformation shape the way I host conversations, learning spaces, and collective reflection. The Art of Hosting practice gave me language and community for the work I care about: creating spaces for connection, dialogue, and shared meaning. Now based in Berlin, I contribute to several communities including Beyond Patriarchy and Citizens Lab. I currently “dance” in the role of Program Lead at the Civil Society Forum, weaving together facilitation, program design, and capacity development.