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Ancient knowledge, modern eco-communities

2025-1-IT03-KA153-YOU-0002992532025Mobility of youth workersongoing
Countries: IT|DE|PT|PL|ES · Grant: €32,046
Quality and innovation of youth workDemocracy and inclusive democratic participationEnvironment and climate change

Objectives

The aim of ACKnowledge is to contribute to transform and enrich youth work through Matriarchal and Indigenous knowledge for sustainable and inclusive communities. "Acknowledge - Ancient Communities, modern eco-societies" is designed to equip youth workers and organisations with knowledge, tools, and methodologies rooted in ancient and modern matriarchal and indigenous societies, as well as ecological principles. These interconnected frameworks will enable them to engage young people in community building, fostering democratic, inclusive, egalitarian, sustainable, and nature-connected communities. The project does not promote a reversal of patriarchy or the establishment of a new system of domination. Instead, it draws inspiration from matriarchal and indigenous societies to explore alternative models of social organisation. Contrary to common misconceptions, matriarchy is not the opposite of patriarchy - it is a system based on balance, reciprocity, and cooperation rather than hierarchy and control. These societies have historically functioned through consensus-based decision-making, economic systems centered on gift-giving and resource-sharing, and a non-violent, egalitarian approach to social organisation. Our approach is scientific and educational, not ideological or mystical. ACKnowledge is rooted in academic research, particularly modern matriarchal studies developed by scholars such as Heide Goettner-Abendroth, Genevieve Vaughan, and Vandana Shiva. It seeks to provide practical applications of these theories to youth work, ensuring that these insights do not remain confined to academic circles but instead become actionable tools for building stronger, fairer, and more sustainable communities. The project introduces a new lens - the matriarchal and indigenous perspective - as a tool for systemic change. The youth workers and organisations involved will develop knowledge and skills that will help them to analyse and deconstruct patriarchal dynamics/structures, understand the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of dominant systems, and integrate alternative models into their daily work, enhancing their ability to empower young people to become changemakers in their own communities. By embracing principles such as gift economies, consensus-based governance, and holistic sustainability, youth workers will learn how to foster resilient, self-sufficient, and cooperative communities. This approach directly challenges the capitalist-patriarchal model, which prioritises individual success and economic gain over communal well-being. It advocates for an economy of reciprocity and care, where economic activity is based on fulfilling human and environmental needs rather than maximising profit. Regarding ecology, matriarchal and indigenous societies have always maintained a deep connection with nature, integrating sustainable practices into their cultural, economic, and social structures. In a world facing unprecedented climate crises, reclaiming these ecological perspectives is essential for fostering a new generation of youth leaders who prioritise sustainability in their work and communities. To achieve its objectives, ACKnowledge will host an 8-day transnational residential training that will immerse youth workers in: - non-formal education methodologies that integrate matriarchal and indigenous approaches; - decolonial perspectives, challenging the Eurocentric and capitalist narratives that shape contemporary social structures; - community-building strategies based on the principles of reciprocity, collective decision-making, and shared responsibility; - tools for engagement, enabling youth workers to actively involve young people in discussions and projects related to equality, sustainability, and social transformation. At the heart of the ACKnowledge Project are the desire and determination to create a lasting impact on youth work practice and to be part of and support the growth of a broader movement. With this project we aim to: i) strengthen the capacity of partner organisations with limited experience in Erasmus+ by integrating them into the broader European framework of education and mobility; ii) ensure continuity beyond the project, with partner organisations committed to further developing and disseminating matriarchal and indigenous knowledge within the youth work sector; iii) foster a network of youth workers and organisations dedicated to social transformation, sustainability, and alternative community-building methodologies. ACKnowledge wants to empower youth workers as agents of change, both transforming their own practices and engage/inspire young people to take active roles in shaping the future of their communities. Through Erasmus+, we want to build bridges between cultures, histories, and knowledge systems. Our organisations are committed to continuing this work and expanding the conversation, ensuring that these transformative perspectives become an integral part of European youth work.

Project partners (5)