On May 17th 2025, Cultural Foundation 1948 hosted the interactive workshop “How to distinguish between the right and the fake” in Nicosia – Cyprus, as part of the MEDMAS – Media Masters project, under the EU-funded CERV programme. The event gathered 55 participants from diverse backgrounds for an engaging three-hour session aiming to strengthen critical thinking and empower citizens to navigate today’s complex media landscape.
Through participatory methods, including an original board game developed for the MEDMAS initiative, attendee explored how misinformation spreads, why it’s persuasive and how to resist it.
A game – changing approach to media education
Participants, including students, educators, journalists, NGO workers, artists and concerned citizens, dove into an interactive experience where learning met laughter, collaboration and reflection. The centrepiece was the MEDMAS board game, which simulates new environments filled with real and fake headlines, articles, stories etc. With each turn, participants had to decide: truth or lie?
“The game made it fun, but also stressful in a good way”, one participant reflected. “Some fake headlines looked very real and made me doubt my judgment”.
Real stories, fake news, shared lessons
The workshop began with a deep dive into examples of both authentic and fake news, including local case studies involving viral disinformation about migration and COVID-19. Participants shared personal experiences, uncovering the emotional hooks and habits that make misinformation so convincing. Many admitted to previously believing false stories, prompting eye-opening conversations and a renewed commitment to fast checking.
From awareness to action
The workshop didn’t end at awareness, is sparked community level enthusiasm for the replication. Educators requested access to the game for use in schools. Youth workers express interest in adapting the method for their centres. Participants stayed connect beyond the event, forming an informal media literacy network across sectors.
Key highlights from participant’s feedback
- 76% found the board game “very effective” as a learning tool
- 65% would recommend the workshop to other
- Many suggested for the initiative to expand into schools, libraries, festivals and civic spaces.
More than a workshop: A civic moment
By combining education with play, the workshop transformed abstract concerns about disinformation into a shared, accessible experience. It demonstrated that media literacy can be empowering, joyful and deeply needed in our communities.
As disinformation continues to influence public debate and social trust, grassroots actions like this workshop show how local engagement can build digital resilience from the ground up.
Learn more about the MEDMAS project and upcoming initiatives at:
🔗 https://research.pacomonia.com/news-updates/
