YEA – Youth Engagement Academy
Project Number: 101090065
Introduction
Over the past few months, a series of impactful transnational trainings brought together young leaders and decision-makers from across Europe to empower and inspire a new generation of change makers. Held in Croatia, Sweden, and Romania, these events focused on critical aspects of youth participation in democratic processes, fostering dialogue, and enhancing the role of young people in shaping the future of Europe.
These trainings provided invaluable opportunities for participants to exchange ideas, learn new skills, and build networks that will help them drive positive change in their local communities and beyond. By addressing key topics such as EU participation, youth policy, and democratic institutions, these events have contributed significantly to the ongoing efforts to ensure that the voices of young people are heard and valued at every level of governance.
Transnational Training Activity “Being a Europe Change Maker” in Croatia
In September 2023, the picturesque Island Čiovo in Croatia hosted the European Change Maker Training Course, part of the ERASMUS+ Youth Empowerment Academy (YEA). Over two days, 14 young leaders from seven countries, supported by eight partner organizations, gathered to develop their skills as change makers.
The course significantly enhanced participants’ knowledge and skills, promoted cross-cultural understanding, and created valuable networking opportunities. The action plans developed are set to drive positive change across Europe. This training was a pivotal step in empowering youth to become effective change makers, leaving a lasting legacy for future initiatives.
Dialogue of youth-representatives of youth councils and decision makers in Sweden
In November 2023, Orrefors, Sweden, hosted a pivotal dialogue event that united 40 participants, including youth council representatives and decision-makers, for a dynamic two-day discussion. This event, designed to enhance youth participation in policy-making, focused on critical topics that impact young people across Europe.
The dialogue successfully supported and enhanced the visibility of youth councils, facilitated the exchange of knowledge, and fostered collaborative efforts to improve youth policy-making. By creating a platform for meaningful discussion and direct engagement with decision-makers, the event aimed to empower young people to actively participate in shaping future policies.
This dialogue stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to strengthen youth involvement in democratic processes and highlight the crucial role of youth councils in shaping effective and inclusive policies.
Youth Lab in Romania
In November 2023, a dynamic Youth Lab took place in Romania, gathering 24 participants from six partner organizations for an intensive four-day workshop. This event was designed to deepen understanding of democratic institutions and the role of decision-makers, while actively engaging young people in the democratic process.
The Youth Lab provided participants with valuable insights into the functioning of democratic institutions and the decision-making process. By engaging in critical thinking and collaborative activities, attendees developed actionable ideas for enhancing democratic participation and generating economic benefits. The videos produced by participants highlighted their unique perspectives and learning outcomes, serving as a testament to the event’s success.
