The most important element of creating a methodology for this project was the application of creativity as an engine for participation. A creative approach was reflected in exercises, workshops, materials and the way of working. This enabled young people to feel in their territory and free to express themselves in many fields and mediums (including online and offline), thereby increasing their participation in society. The two main objectives which we as a consortium were able to achieve were: I)The design and implementation of successful Action Plans through the #UComE Online Project Management Platform, which mobilised local communities, made possible community engagement and addressed concerns such as youth democratic participation and the organisation of youth volunteering structures, through the systematisation of information, the provision of digitised project tools and the stimulation of dialogue by the mining tool. II)The development of social infrastructure through the circulation of relevant information and knowledge within the community, as well as the provision of guidance and training to support the organisations in creating and carrying out initiatives that address their community problems.
Young people have been hit very hard by Corona. Of course, the impacts of COVID-19 have not been uniform, varying by demographics, location, and individual circumstances; however, pre-existing inequalities were amplified, and new issues have been raised up. Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression are the most outstanding, but they are not the only new problems for the centennials. As a consortium, we wanted to tackle the problems embodied by young people. We wanted to find solutions to face the pandemic aftermath in a new light. As a consortium, we believed that the participation of youth in the civic and political life of their communities, could positively impact their attitudes and personal empowerment. After reading different publications and studies on the subject, we saw clearly that the benefits for young people who have an active participation are enormous. Some of them are: Empowerment and Development, civic engagement, skill building and addressing their needs. During this project, we have tried to address youth participation and its benefits; we have tried to seduce young people to become a more active actor in their communities and make them appreciate the values of volunteering and active citizenship.