Our team had the incredible opportunity to participate in Meeting III in Rabat, Malta from December 9-12, 2024 as part of the “YOUth and Democracy: Empowering Europe’s Next Generation” initiative. This gathering brought together representatives from 18 European countries to discuss youth participation in democratic processes and explore ways to engage young people in shaping the future of Europe. The event featured insightful discussions with key policymakers, including Minister Owen Bonnici, Deputy Naomi Cachia, and Mayor Sandro Craus, focusing on how young people can play a more active role in politics and civic life. Through debates and reflections, we explored the challenges and motivations of young politicians and exchanged ideas on increasing youth engagement in democratic decision-making. Beyond the discussions, we immersed ourselves in Malta’s cultural and historical richness. From the silent city of Mdina to the Christmas Market in Rabat, every moment was a reminder of how culture and history shape our European identity. A visit to Malta’s Parliament and a meeting with policymakers gave us a deeper understanding of European governance and the importance of youth perspectives in shaping policies. This experience reinforced our commitment to fostering active citizenship, intercultural exchange, and youth empowerment. We are grateful for the warm hospitality of our Maltese hosts and the invaluable contributions of all partners. These dialogues and connections will fuel our ongoing efforts in Austria and beyond. Looking forward to our next gathering in Portugal and continuing this journey of collaboration, engagement, and European solidarity!

The European Union Erasmus+ Program KA2 project “e-coop” is an innovative initiative that highlights the crucial role of energy cooperatives in the sustainable energy transition in rural areas. In this context, our Multiplier Event aimed to disseminate the project results to a wider audience and actively involve local communities and stakeholders in the energy transition process.  During our event, we discussed how to strengthen energy cooperatives in rural areas, how to expand renewable energy solutions, and how to develop community-based sustainable models. Participants gained insights into the project outcomes and shared inspiring ideas for transitioning to clean energy in line with the European Green Deal. 

Under the European Union Erasmus+ Program, the multiplier event of our KA2 project “EU Dare – Improving the development of rural areas through a resilient approach based on sustainable and regenerative farming systems, decreasing the isolation of small rural farmers” has been successfully held.

Building Inclusive Communities – Advancing Inclusion and Empowerment We are pleased to announce the successful completion of our Erasmus+ KA153 project, “Building Inclusive Communities,” implemented in Neu-Nagelberg, Austria. This initiative brought together young individuals from seven countries to enhance their skills, exchange best practices, and develop inclusive approaches to support young people with special needs. Through interactive workshops, case studies, and expert-led training sessions, participants acquired practical tools and strategies to foster accessibility, inclusive communication, and empathy. Moreover, the project facilitated stronger international collaboration, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society. We extend our sincere appreciation to all trainers, participants, and partners who contributed to the success of this initiative. The insights and methodologies gained will continue to inspire and shape inclusive practices in our respective communities.

On the 25th and 26th of September, YIPPEE’s partners participated in a Transnational Project Meeting to discuss the Project Results (PR) and to plan action to achieve them. For this event, partners participated both in-person, in Ankara, and online.

Empowering Youth Changemakers for Eco-friendly Solutions We are pleased to announce the successful completion of our Erasmus+ project, “Empowering Youth Changemakers for Eco-friendly Solutions,” held in Neu-Nagelberg, Austria. This initiative brought together young individuals from Austria, Türkiye, Spain, Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, Germany, and Italy to develop innovative approaches to recycling, waste management, and sustainable business practices. Throughout the training, participants engaged in interactive workshops, hands-on recycling activities, and in-depth discussions on eco-social enterprises. They explored practical solutions to promote sustainability in their communities and gained valuable insights into the role of entrepreneurship in driving environmental change. By exchanging knowledge and best practices, they strengthened their capacity to implement eco-friendly initiatives at the local and international levels. At the conclusion of the project, participants reflected on their experiences and received certificates of completion, recognizing their commitment to sustainability. The knowledge, skills, and collaborations fostered during this program will continue to inspire long-term positive impact in their communities. We extend our sincere appreciation to all trainers, participants, and partners who contributed to the success of this initiative. This project marks an important step toward a more sustainable future, driven by empowered young changemakers.

The digital platform of Yippee, our KA2 project under the Erasmus+ Program, has been established. You can review all the outputs of the project as a free member of the platform. Click here to access the User Guide of the platform. Click here to access the platform.

We spent two days in Bovino, Italy for the second project meeting of the KA2 Project “YIPPEE: Youth Work Improved Throug Young PeoPlE’s Stories.” The YIPPEE project wants to contribute to more equal, intercultural and inclusive youth local communities through new approaches and transnational initiatives where youth work based on true peer learning can be a means of growth both for EU and immigrant/refugees’ young generation!

Our organization hosted the international project partner meeting of the KA2 project “PAGES – counteracting ageism for a Europe open to all” held on May 4 and 5. The project aims to support the global fight against ageism and promote intergenerational cohesion by training adult educators/ on how to engage older adults in learning. An intergenerational program based on creativity and culture was also planned.

LTT (LLTA) Activity of our Erasmus + project named ”PAGES – Counteracting AGEism for a Europe open to all” was held in Vienna between 13-16 December 2022.The project PAGES – Counteracting AGEism for a Europe open to all aims to support the global combat on ageism and to foster intergenerational cohesion at the community level, by upskilling adult educators/ community workers on how to engage older adults in learning. It will envisage the co-creation of an Intergenerational program based on creativity and culture.The LTTA (Learning, Teaching, Training Activity) was be hosted by VABCKJS-EU and was include:- seminars about intergenerationality.- a set of workshops and working groups for co-production of the ground basis for the InterAGES programme.- study visits to sites in which participants get contact with inspiring practices in this field.