The project had a clear aim: to revolutionize how European citizens, especially young people aged 13 to 18, viewed craft professions. It sought to underscore the importance of crafts as responsible and sustainable career options in the global market. Utilizing virtual reality and other modern technologies was key to making these professions more appealing to the youth, tapping into their preferred modes of learning and communication. Our objectives were multifaceted. Firstly, we aimed to equip youth workers with effective tools and methodologies to guide young individuals toward craft careers. This meant arming them with knowledge about the opportunities, skills, and significance of crafts in sustainable economies. Secondly, we endeavored to foster meaningful connections between craftsmen and young people. Facilitating mutual learning and the transfer of craft skills was crucial for preserving the continuity of these professions. It was about passing down essential know-how and knowledge about tools and processes to future generations. Lastly, we leveraged modern technologies such as virtual reality to create immersive experiences showcasing the creativity, innovation, and sustainability inherent in craft professions.
We applied for the Crafts Youth Future Engagement (CYFE) project to address two critical needs. Firstly, there was a significant gap in the transmission of craftsmanship knowledge and skills to younger generations. Secondly, many young people lacked awareness of the diverse crafts professions and their significance. With an aging demographic among craftsmen and the absence of succession plans, there was a risk of losing invaluable skills and experiences. CYFE aimed to bridge this gap by facilitating the transfer of skills from craftsmen to young individuals, fostering new relationships for the benefit of future generations. Additionally, CYFE aimed to highlight the values of craftsmanship, such as expertise, entrepreneurship, quality, sustainability, and cultural heritage preservation. By doing so, we aimed to demonstrate how craftsmanship contributes to sustainability and responsible consumption. CYFE was conceived as a response to these challenges, aiming to facilitate the transfer of skills and crafts from seasoned craftsmen to young individuals. By building new relationships between these two groups, we aimed to lay the groundwork for the continued flourishing of craftsmanship for years to come.