Our organization, together with our partners, has a long-term commitment to promoting youth participation and ensuring that young people are actively involved in decision-making processes that affect their lives. During our consultations, young people in our organizations expressed a strong interest in taking part in an international initiative, where they could exchange experiences with peers from different countries. They specifically highlighted the need to learn practical methods of youth participation, to develop competencies in advocacy and civic engagement, and to bring these skills back to their communities. Based on these needs, we jointly developed the Voices for Change: Youth in Action project to create a space where young people can strengthen their capacities and become more confident actors in shaping democratic societies. Through this project, we aim to equip young people with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to participate meaningfully in civic life and democratic processes. The focus will be on empowering youth to engage in dialogue and decision-making on urgent issues such as youth unemployment, discrimination, and social exclusion—topics that are particularly relevant in today’s divided societies. By addressing these challenges from a youth work perspective, the project will encourage young people to see themselves not only as beneficiaries of social change but as active changemakers who can influence policy and practice at local, national, and European levels. The youth exchange will provide opportunities for participants to develop competencies, share best practices, and practice active engagement through non-formal education methods. For example, digital media campaigns and video production will allow young people to express their voices in creative ways, while peer-to-peer learning and intercultural dialogue will help them understand different realities of youth participation. These activities are designed to strengthen their sense of agency and motivate them to take initiative once they return to their home communities, contributing to the building of more inclusive and democratic societies. Objectives of the youth exchange “Voices for Change: Youth in Action”: -To increase participants' competencies in youth participation, equipping them with knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to engage in decision-making processes. -To explore different models of youth participation across partner countries, such as youth councils, clubs, and parliaments, and reflect on how these can be adapted locally. -To share best practices and experiences in youth work, inspiring participants to develop new initiatives and become more active in their communities. -To examine youth participation as a foundation for inclusive and democratic societies, grounded in the values of human rights, rule of law, and freedom. -To empower young people to actively take part in decision-making, giving them practical tools and opportunities to practice civic engagement. -To raise awareness of the Erasmus+ Programme 2021–2027, encouraging young people to benefit from its opportunities for learning, mobility, and participation. -To use social media as a youth-friendly platform for advocacy, raising awareness about youth participation and reaching peers in partner communities. -To produce and disseminate three short videos promoting youth participation, which will be presented in follow-up events and used as practical tools for local youth work.