In 2024, YMCA Europe launched the 6th cohort of Leadership Academy, an international long-term training course aimed at strengthening the skills of young leaders in the field of non-formal education. Under the title: “Youth Educates: Strengthening the Capacity of Youth Civil Society Organisations to Run Non-Formal Education Activities,” the project was co-funded by the European Youth Foundation.
Aiming for Excellence in Youth Work
The Leadership Academy is rooted in a mission to elevate the quality of youth work by enhancing the capacity of civil society organisations to deliver impactful non-formal education programs. Its objectives were clear:
- Equip young leaders with essential skills to plan, deliver, and evaluate non-formal education activities.
- Promote the Council of Europe’s Youth Work Portfolio Competencies Framework, ensuring alignment with international standards.
- Engage youth from marginalised communities in educational activities that foster intercultural learning, equity, inclusion, peace, and diversity.
Achievements of the Leadership Academy
The program’s impact was far-reaching, with 25 graduates from 16 countries successfully completing the course. These young leaders:
- Enhanced their theoretical knowledge and practical skills to design, implement, and evaluate non-formal educational activities.
- Developed as youth workers and trainers, guided by the Youth Work Portfolio Framework and ETS Trainer Competencies.
The ripple effects of their learning were significant:
- 18 local educational projects were designed and implemented by participants, directly benefiting 563 young people.
- The projects primarily engaged youth from disadvantaged backgrounds, including internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, migrants, NEET youth, religious and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and youth from low-income families or rural areas.
A Commitment to Inclusion and Community Impact
Each project was a step toward building inclusive communities, promoting diversity, and empowering youth to become changemakers. The participants’ efforts showcased the transformative power of non-formal education in fostering understanding and resilience among marginalised groups.
Explore the Full Report
The Public Report of the Leadership Academy offers a detailed account of its outcomes, including insights into the content of educational activities and inspiring testimonials from participants.
YMCA Europe remains committed to equipping young leaders with the skills and knowledge to build a better, more inclusive future. Through initiatives like the Leadership Academy, we continue to strengthen the foundations of youth work across Europe and beyond.
For more details and inspiring stories from the Leadership Academy, read the Public Report here.
Co-funded by the European Youth Foundtion of the Council of Europe
