Youth Can Participate

Youth Can Participate: Empowering Young Voices Across Borders

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The Youth Can Participate Erasmus+ project successfully brought together young people from Türkiye and Germany in a dynamic and engaging programme held in Hamburg and Antalya. Implemented in collaboration with Aubiko e.V., the project aimed to strengthen youth participation in democratic processes and encourage active citizenship.

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🏛️ Learning from Political Leaders and Institutions

One of the most inspiring moments of the project was the meeting with Aydan Özoğuz. Her insights into political life and decision-making processes encouraged participants to actively engage in shaping their future.

Participants also visited various political institutions and parties in both Germany and Türkiye. These visits provided valuable opportunities to understand different political systems, compare approaches, and discuss the role of youth and women in politics.

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🌍 Intercultural Exchange and Cultural Nights

Cultural exchange was a central element of the project. Participants organized Turkish and German cultural nights, where they shared traditions, food, music, and customs.

From Turkish coffee and traditional rituals to German cuisine and cultural quizzes, these events created meaningful connections and strengthened intercultural understanding among participants.

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🌱 Sustainability and Civic Awareness

As part of the programme, participants visited the headquarters of Greenpeace in Hamburg. This visit provided valuable insights into environmental activism, sustainability, and the role of youth in creating positive change.

Participants learned about climate awareness, environmental protection, and the importance of volunteering in building a sustainable future.

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🗣️ Active Participation and Comparative Learning

Throughout the project, participants engaged in discussions, group work, and presentations focused on youth participation in decision-making processes. By working in mixed international teams, they exchanged perspectives and developed a deeper understanding of democratic systems.

The comparative approach between Germany and Türkiye allowed participants to critically analyze political structures and share their ideas for improving youth engagement.

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🚣‍♀️ Discovering Hamburg Through Experience

Beyond educational activities, participants explored Hamburg through interactive experiences such as city hunts and water sports in the city’s famous canals. These activities strengthened teamwork, built friendships, and created unforgettable memories.
 

The Youth Can Participate project successfully empowered young people to become active participants in society. By combining political education, intercultural exchange, and experiential learning, the project fostered a deeper understanding of democracy, collaboration, and youth leadership.

It stands as a strong example of how Erasmus+ projects can inspire young individuals to raise their voices, engage in decision-making, and contribute to a more inclusive and democratic future.