How can young people contribute to building communities where they see opportunities for their future?

This question was at the heart of the Brain Gain Summit organised by the Institute for Population and Development (IPD) as part of the Erasmus+ DoU(th) project.

The Summit brought together municipal mayors, representatives of public institutions, local economic development departments, businesses and civil society organisations to discuss recommendations developed by young people on improving opportunities in their communities.

The event marked the culmination of a broader participatory process. Through Brain Gain pilot activities and youth consultations, young people explored challenges related to employment, education, housing, environmental sustainability and gender equality, developing ideas and recommendations for positive change.

These activities provided young people with opportunities to express their perspectives, identify priorities and propose practical solutions to challenges affecting their lives and communities.

What made the event particularly meaningful was the active role of young people themselves. They were involved not only in developing recommendations but also in planning, organising and facilitating the Summit.

By bringing youth-generated ideas directly to representatives of institutions and the business sector, the event created an opportunity for dialogue on youth employment, entrepreneurship, participation and sustainable local development.

The Brain Gain Summit demonstrated the importance of moving beyond simply listening to young people towards actively involving them in discussions and processes that shape their communities.

Because Brain Gain begins when young people are given the opportunity to help shape the future of the places they call home.

The activity was organised within the DoU(th) project, co-funded by the European Union through the Erasmus+ Programme.