In October, young leaders from across Europe gathered in the scenic coastal town of Benicàssim, Spain, for an enriching Youth Exchange dedicated to creating a more sustainable Europe. This program, part of our Erasmus+ “Voices of the Next Generation” project funded by the European Union, empowered participants to explore the essential themes of climate change, biodiversity, the European Green Deal, sustainable consumption, and policy-making for environmental resilience.

Our exchange offered a unique opportunity to not only learn but to experience nature’s beauty firsthand. One of the most memorable moments was a hike through Natura 2000 protected areas, highlighting the rich biodiversity that sustainable policies aim to protect. This excursion underscored the importance of the EU’s strategy to use natural resources at a pace that allows the earth to renew them, a vital approach in a post-COVID-19 context where resilient ecosystems are key to societal stability.

Throughout the exchange, our participants engaged in a variety of workshops and group activities, each focused on fostering knowledge and action around sustainability. Some key highlights included:

• Interactive Group Discussions: Topics like the European Green Deal, biodiversity, and the role of youth in environmental policy were explored in depth, encouraging participants to exchange insights and ideas.
• Collaborative Workshops: Hands-on activities allowed participants to brainstorm initiatives for their local communities, from reducing waste to advocating for sustainable urban development.
• Natura 2000 Hike: An inspiring journey through biodiversity-rich areas gave participants a real-world glimpse of the ecosystems they’re working to protect.
• Cultural Exchange and Team-Building: With participants from across the EU, the exchange offered rich cultural experiences and fostered lasting friendships, reinforcing a shared commitment to a sustainable Europe.

This exchange was not just a learning experience; it was a call to action. As these young leaders return home, they bring with them renewed motivation and practical tools to advocate for a greener, more resilient Europe.

Thank you to everyone who took part in this incredible journey! Together, we are building a sustainable future—one initiative, one community at a time.

Stay connected with us and follow our journey to see how European youth are shaping the future of environmental policy!

Don’t forget to check out our Instagram carousel for a visual recap of these memorable moments! @voicesofnextgen

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.

From July 14th to 21st, the charming town of Pärnu, Estonia, became a vibrant hub of youthful energy and innovative thinking as it hosted the Voices of the Next Generation Youth Exchange. Young people from across Europe gathered for an incredible week of learning, networking, and cultural exchange. This event provided participants with the unique opportunity to dive deep into a variety of critical topics, including literacy, entrepreneurship, citizenship, multilingualism, cultural awareness, and social skills.

Throughout the week, participants engaged in interactive workshops, formed meaningful connections with peers, and built strong networks that will last a lifetime. The experience was not just about gaining new knowledge—it was about empowering the next generation of European citizens and leaders to take meaningful action in their communities.

Now, we are excited to announce that the full video of the Youth Exchange in Pärnu is available on our YouTube channel! The video, produced by the talented Francesca Ticca, captures the essence of the event—from dynamic workshops to candid moments of cultural exchange. Whether you were part of the experience or are curious about what happened, this video offers a glimpse into the incredible journey that unfolded in Estonia.

Watch Now: YE2 – Pärnu, Estonia

The video also showcases key elements of the program that focused on building essential skills for both personal and professional growth. Participants were able to enhance their ability to engage in healthy debates, improve public speaking, and work collaboratively—all while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Pärnu.

A Glimpse of What’s to Come

The Youth Exchange in Pärnu is just the beginning. We have more exciting events lined up for 2024 and 2025. These include youth exchanges focusing on topics like climate change, the European Green Deal, media literacy, and sustainable urban development. Upcoming exchanges will be hosted in various countries, such as Spain, Romania, Italy, and Belgium, offering even more opportunities for young people to learn, collaborate, and create lasting impact.

Upcoming Events:

• October 2024: Hosted by @‌ilewasi
• March 2025: Hosted by @‌asociatiaaum
• June/July 2024: Hosted by @‌europeanyouthpress
• September 2024: Hosted by @‌associazione.eufemia

Make sure to follow us and our partner organisations for updates on new dates and registration information. These exchanges and the final conference will feature workshops, discussions, and opportunities for participants to engage with European leaders and create innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.

As part of this project, we will also be producing a series of six short films, documenting the visions and ideas of young people on pressing societal issues and European values. These films aim to inspire and encourage youth to get involved in politics and decision-making processes, helping to shape the future of Europe.

Stay Connected!

Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel, where you can watch the full video from Estonia, and follow us on social media for updates on upcoming exchanges, registration details, and more exciting content.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Pärnu Youth Exchange—we hope to see even more of you at our future events as we continue to build a brighter future together!