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LEAD: Learning, Empowerment and Development for the Next Generation of Youth

2025-3-ES02-KA153-YOU-0003805392025Mobility of youth workersongoing
Countries: ES|BE|TR|HU|MK|RO|RS · Grant: €23,671
Youth employabilityQuality and innovation of youth workBridging intercultural, intergenerational and social divide

Objectives

The main purpose of our project is to address the gap in experience and knowledge that exists between “veteran” youth workers and the new Generation Z. We seek to create an intergenerational bridge that allows the next wave of leaders in youth work in Europe to develop the necessary skills, confidence, and networks to successfully manage European projects. By implementing a training and mentoring program, our goal is to equip the new generation of youth workers with the practical tools and experience that are often acquired only over time. We recognize that the field of European projects is complex, full of bureaucratic and competitive challenges, and that a lack of experience can be a significant obstacle for young people who want to start their own initiatives. By facilitating this exchange of knowledge, we are not only improving the individual capabilities of the participants, but also strengthening the youth work ecosystem in Europe. We want to ensure that the knowledge accumulated over years by experienced youth workers is not lost, but is effectively transferred, thereby ensuring the continuity and quality of youth social work on the continent. From a youth work practice perspective, our objectives are centered on competence development, empowerment, and community building. 1. Development of Technical and Soft Skills: Project Management: Our primary objective is to train young people in the technical aspects of managing European projects. This includes writing compelling proposals, navigating administrative processes, financial management, and reporting on impact. We want participants to feel confident in applying for a grant and managing every stage of a project from start to finish upon completion of the project. Interpersonal Skills: We recognize that a project's success doesn't depend solely on bureaucracy. For this reason, the training will also focus on the development of crucial soft skills, such as intercultural communication, participatory leadership, and conflict resolution. These skills are fundamental for working in diverse teams and multicultural environments. Adaptation to New Technologies: Today's youth are digital natives. We seek to channel this natural ability so they can effectively use digital tools and online platforms for the management, communication, and dissemination of their projects. 2. Fostering Intergenerational Mentoring and Mutual Learning: Transfer of Practical Knowledge: The project seeks to go beyond theory. Trainers will share their stories of success and failure, offering young people a real-world perspective on what managing a project entails. This practical approach is essential for preparing participants for real-world challenges. Reverse Mentoring: We will foster a two-way learning model. While experienced youth workers will share their knowledge of project management, Generation Z youth workers will contribute their fresh perspective on new technologies, youth trends, and new forms of participation, in turn enriching the practice of the veterans. 3. Strengthening Community and the Youth Work Network: Building a Solid Network: The project will create a strong and lasting network of contacts between participants and trainers. This network will serve as a professional support system that will extend far beyond the project's duration, facilitating future collaborations. Empowerment and Resilience: Through mentoring and support, our goal is to empower young people to overcome the obstacles and job insecurity they often face. We want them to leave the project with the confidence and resilience needed to lead their own initiatives. In summary, we seek to create a project that is more than a simple training program. We want it to be a platform for intergenerational collaboration, mutual learning, and the construction of a stronger, more capable, and resilient community of youth workers in Europe. By the end of the project, young people will not only have the technical skills, but also the network and confidence to become the youth work leaders of tomorrow.

Project partners (7)