The “You Count” project was initiated to tackle pressing issues around youth inclusion and participation in society, specifically targeting young individuals aged 17-26 from the Netherlands, Spain, Estonia, and Lithuania. Recognizing that youth are not merely recipients but essential stakeholders in building a more inclusive and equitable future, the project aimed to empower young people to actively engage in decision-making processes and contribute meaningfully to their communities. By doing so, "You Count" sought to cultivate a generation of well-prepared young individuals to foster social inclusion and embrace diversity. The primary objectives of “You Count” centered on the following goals: -> Promote Youth Inclusion: The project aimed to raise awareness about the critical importance of inclusivity across all societal dimensions—education, employment, culture, and community life. Through targeted workshops and discussions, we encouraged participants to understand and advocate for inclusive practices, enabling them to bring these values back to their home environments. -> Capacity Building: A significant focus was on equipping participants with essential competencies, including leadership, teamwork, and communication skills, to support their engagement in community initiatives. By building confidence, the project intended to empower participants to become active contributors and leaders in fostering inclusive practices locally and beyond. -> Fostering European Citizenship: The project sought to cultivate a sense of European identity among participants, promoting respect for diversity and collaborative problem-solving on shared challenges. This objective was intended to enhance participants' understanding of European values and reinforce their role as active, engaged citizens within the European Union. -> Cross-Cultural Cooperation: Recognizing the power of diversity, “You Count” aimed to create meaningful connections among youth from different backgrounds, fostering mutual respect and understanding. Through cultural exchange activities, the project encouraged participants to learn about each other's traditions and perspectives, ultimately promoting cross-cultural cooperation and lasting friendships. Aligned with the Erasmus+ program’s mission, “You Count” also prioritized the inclusion of young people facing fewer opportunities, such as those from disadvantaged backgrounds, minorities, and those experiencing various obstacles. This ensured the project's reach and impact would extend to marginalized and underrepresented groups, contributing to these individuals' broader social, economic, and political inclusion. Through carefully designed activities, including preparatory orientation sessions, cultural sensitivity training, and skill-building workshops, participants actively participated in learning, leading activities, and even developing community projects addressing local and international inclusion issues. The project included hands-on experiences, like organizing local outdoor events in Zutphen, and planning follow-up initiatives, allowing participants to apply their learnings practically. Additionally, an alumni network was established to support continued connections, mentorship, and collaborative advocacy, enabling participants to sustain their engagement and continue making positive changes. In summary, “You Count” aimed to provide a nurturing environment for youth empowerment, where young people could grow as informed, active, and engaged citizens. By focusing on inclusion, participation, and European citizenship, the project has set out to equip youth with the skills, experiences, and networks needed to shape a more inclusive and equitable society, thereby contributing to social cohesion, economic development, and the overall well-being of communities across Europe.