Embracing the Change
The Social Cooperative Enterprise “Eco Active” proudly reflects on the recent success of its groundbreaking project, “The ChangeMakers.” Held from April 10th to April 18th, 2022, in the vibrant island of Thasos, Greece, this transformative initiative exceeded expectations and set new benchmarks in the field of Youth Employability through Social Entrepreneurship.
A Vision Realized
The “ChangeMakers” program was designed to tackle the pressing issue of youth unemployment by equipping young people with innovative skills and fostering connections among social enterprises and NGOs. With a clear focus on empowering the next generation, the project sought to provide practical solutions and fresh perspectives to address local and European-wide challenges.
Bringing together 25 dynamic participants from Greece, Latvia, Italy, Germany, and Finland, alongside staff from five partner organizations, the program created a unique platform for learning and growth. Over the course of seven days, plus two travel days, attendees engaged in intensive training sessions, hands-on workshops, and collaborative discussions.
Highlights of the Program
- Empower Youth: Participants gained valuable insights into Social Entrepreneurship, enhancing their skills and knowledge to become proactive contributors to their local communities. The training emphasized practical approaches to address high unemployment rates and encouraged innovative thinking.
- Building Strong Networks: The program facilitated the creation of robust relationships among NGOs, social enterprises, and young professionals. By fostering these connections, “The ChangeMakers” strengthened the support system for youth unemployment and social inclusion.
- Interactive Learning: The training included interactive workshops and study visits to local social enterprises. These activities allowed participants to explore real-world applications of Social Entrepreneurship, inspiring creativity and discovering new pathways for career development.
- Exchange of Best Practices: Attendees shared experiences and best practices, contributing to a rich exchange of ideas. Discussions covered various aspects of Youth Employability and provided actionable strategies for creating job opportunities through alternative paths.
Impact and Reflections
The “ChangeMakers” program not only achieved its goals but also exceeded the expectations of both participants and organizers. Feedback from attendees highlighted the program's effectiveness in bridging the gap between theory and practice, and in fostering a collaborative spirit among diverse stakeholders.
Participants reported a significant increase in their confidence and readiness to implement social enterprise initiatives in their communities. The connections forged during the program are expected to lead to continued collaboration and innovative solutions to the challenges of youth unemployment.
Looking Ahead
The advancements made and the potential for future impact inspire us as we consider the "ChangeMakers" program's success. The project has set a new standard for addressing youth unemployment through Social Entrepreneurship, and the lessons learned will continue to guide our efforts in creating a more sustainable and inclusive future.
We extend our gratitude to all the participants, partners, and supporters who contributed to this remarkable journey. Together, we are paving the way for positive change and demonstrating that with the right tools and collaboration, we can transform futures and make a meaningful difference.
Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to get involved in future initiatives that drive social impact and empower the next generation.
