On International Youth Day, the Youth Center was buzzing with energy and creativity! As part of the YODEC – Youth Voices of the Danube: Empowering Local Champions for European Cohesion project, young people came together to learn, connect, and imagine new ways to make a difference in their communities.
We were thrilled to welcome a group of 35 enthusiastic young people from Caraș-Severin, together with Asociația Buletin de Anina, who arrived eager to explore, learn, and be inspired.
💬 The day began with a consultation activity, where participants engaged in open discussions and idea exchanges about how they can collaborate more effectively within their communities. They reflected on the challenges of cooperation across regions and countries and came up with project ideas to create positive change back home.
🗺️ Afterward, they took part in the Community Mapping activity, exploring the local area through the lens of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They identified what works well in their community, what could be improved, and how they can actively contribute to meaningful transformation.
🤝 Throughout the day, young people asked questions, worked in teams, and looked at their surroundings from a fresh and constructive perspective. They discovered inviting spaces for spending free time, as well as places that could become more youth-friendly and inclusive.
By the end of the day, participants left with new ideas, bold plans, and the motivation to turn their thoughts into real actions. The International Youth Day celebration at YODEC was not just an event—it was a step forward in empowering young people to collaborate, participate, and shape stronger, more connected communities across the Danube Region.