Between 25–28 June 2025, the Polylogos team had the privilege of joining our consortium partners NIT and Agora Coop in Genova, Italy, for an inspiring and impactful exchange. This visit was part of the ACTIVE YOUTH FORUM ITALY, one of the flagship events of the ASPYRE EUROPE project, which brings together young people, youth workers, and civic actors through a series of activities and meetings in Genova from June to September 2025.
At the heart of this experience was a shared commitment to strengthen youth participation and empower young people to become active shapers of their communities and societies.
How can minors strengthen their legitimacy when facing public authorities and other decision-makers, so they can push forward the changes they want to see in their neighborhoods?
During our time in Genova, we engaged in meaningful conversations with Agora’s dedicated street youth workers and the incredible young people they support. Together, we explored a powerful and timely question: How can minors strengthen their legitimacy when facing public authorities and other decision-makers, so they can push forward the changes they want to see in their neighborhoods?
This dialogue was structured around three essential steps:
1️⃣ What is the problem? — identifying the key issues faced by young people in their daily lives and communities.
2️⃣ What do we want to change? — defining clear, actionable goals that reflect the voices and needs of the youth.
3️⃣ How do we get there? — outlining strategies to engage with decision-makers, build alliances, and advocate for real change.
These discussions laid the foundation for the next phase of the project: the creation of Youth Advocacy Groups and the organization of Civic Cafés, spaces where young people can come together to develop their ideas, share their experiences, and engage directly with policymakers.
Beyond these working sessions, our days in Genova were also an invaluable opportunity for collaboration and learning among partners. By observing each other’s approaches and engaging in hands-on activities, our teams gained fresh perspectives, new methods, and renewed inspiration to support young people more effectively in our respective contexts.
The Active Youth Forum Italy continues throughout the summer, with many more inspiring stories and impactful initiatives still to come. We look forward to sharing these moments and to continuing our mission of strengthening youth participation and democratic engagement.
