The CineConnect project aims to create a transformative experience by using participatory cinema as a tool for social inclusion, intercultural dialogue, preservation of local cultural heritage and promotion of active youth participation. Through non-formal education, collaborative audiovisual creation and youth-centred methodologies, the project responds to concrete needs identified within the European youth work context, promoting meaningful learning, empowerment and connection with the community. Firstly, CineConnect seeks to promote social inclusion and equitable access to cultural participation for young people with fewer opportunities. According to Eurostat data, more than 40% of young people aged 16 to 29 do not regularly participate in cultural or artistic activities, with exclusion rates being particularly high among young people from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, ethnic minorities, migrants and young people with disabilities. The project uses cinema as an accessible, inclusive and flexible language, allowing for different forms of involvement (filming, sound, editing, interviews, visual storytelling), ensuring adapted methods, equal participation and the creation of safe spaces for expression and representation. Secondly, the project aims to develop key competences through cinema as a non-formal learning tool. Through practical workshops, experiential learning and work in intercultural teams, participants will strengthen skills such as communication, creativity, critical thinking, cooperation, problem-solving and basic digital competences. The European Commission recognises that participation in cultural and creative projects significantly contributes to the development of transversal skills, increased self-confidence and improved employability, especially for young people with fewer opportunities. CineConnect translates this evidence into concrete youth work practice, valuing learning by doing and shared responsibility. Another central objective of the project is to preserve and valorise local cultural heritage by actively involving young people in the collection and documentation of stories, traditions, memories and life experiences from the host community. Through interviews, participatory observation and direct contact with different generations, the project promotes intergenerational dialogue, strengthens young people’s sense of belonging and contributes to the preservation of collective memory. The collective film and short documentaries produced will serve as lasting cultural and educational resources, usable for pedagogical, community and dissemination purposes. CineConnect also aims to strengthen the individual and collective well-being of young people through creative expression and group work. The collaborative filmmaking process, combined with daily moments of reflection, sharing and participatory evaluation, promotes self-confidence, empathy, emotional expression and a sense of belonging to the group. This approach is aligned with youth work practices that are person-centred, well-being oriented and focused on building positive relationships. Additionally, the project seeks to promote active participation and youth citizenship. Although this is a European priority, Eurostat data shows that only around 30% of young people feel involved or represented in civic and community decision-making processes. CineConnect responds to this challenge by involving participants in all phases of the project, from defining the narratives to be told to organising a community-open film festival, creating real opportunities for shared decision-making, youth leadership and civic responsibility. Finally, the project aims to create intercultural networks and strengthen the connection between young people and the community, promoting intercultural understanding, social cohesion and community engagement at local and European levels. Interaction between young people from different countries and backgrounds, combined with the active involvement of the local community, contributes to building lasting relationships and strengthening the social fabric. Youth Work Perspective From a youth work perspective, CineConnect is innovative in that it: -Uses cinema as an inclusive, participatory and accessible educational tool; -Integrates creative, social, intercultural and digital competences in a practical and balanced way; -Positions young people as protagonists of the learning, creation and decision-making process; -Addresses cultural exclusion and civic disengagement through youth-led methodologies; -Produces audiovisual resources and methodological approaches that are replicable for other NGOs. CineConnect positions young people as active creators of narratives, capable of valuing diversity, cultural heritage and democratic participation within their communities.