Change Agents
Young leaders as real initiators of change
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Youth Leaders as Change Agents project, implemented by the My Future Foundation, demonstrated the significant role young leaders can play in shaping the quality of youth work and local communities. The project was an international initiative of the Erasmus+ program, implemented in collaboration with the Greek organization Mobility World Space, and focused on developing the competencies of young leaders and improving the quality of youth work activities.
The project aimed to strengthen young leaders and youth workers in areas such as creativity, innovation, social entrepreneurship, and leadership. The project addressed the real needs of young people involved in social activities – many of them were taking on leadership roles for the first time and needed practical tools, support, and a safe space to test new methods of working with youth.
The project included two main stages of mobility. The first, held in Poland, included intensive training in creative thinking, innovation, design thinking, and non-formal education methods. Participants participated in workshops, conducted simulations, role-plays, and learned how to design engaging youth work activities. They then tested the acquired tools in their local environments, working directly with young people.
The second key element was a blended mobility in Greece, focused on social entrepreneurship, the European Youth Goals, and the exchange of best practices. Young leaders from Poland and Greece jointly led workshops, shared experiences, and learned from each other. Activities related to the inclusion of young people with fewer opportunities, sustainable development, and building a European identity were also important elements.
The project was based on non-formal education methods and experiential learning. A strong emphasis was placed on reflection, self-assessment of competences, teamwork, and the development of facilitation skills. Participants developed self-confidence, communication skills, and the ability to initiate their own social activities. For many, this marked a transition from participant to leader and knowledge multiplier.
The project resulted in a tangible improvement in the quality of youth work in both partner organizations. After completing their mobility, the young leaders led local workshops, mentored new volunteers, and implemented innovative methods in their daily work. The project also laid a solid foundation for further international cooperation and the development of further youth-led initiatives.
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Project: Youth Leaders as Change Agents – Erasmus+ Mobility of Youth Leaders Funded by the EU.
The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the EACEA is responsible for them.
Project duration: May 1, 2024 – April 30, 2025
Project number: 2023-3-PL01-KA153-YOU-000180418
Location: Jedlnia-Letnisko, Poland and Athens, Greece
OUR PARTNERS
