I.D.E.A. Youth-led Projects

Turning Ideas into Action!

As a result of the I.D.E.A. project, we successfully implemented six incredible youth-led projects. The first-time social entrepreneurs and project managers were between 13 to 20 years of age and eager to address local social issues. The two partner organisations, THIE, and YDA made sure to support them through the process from the ideation to the dissemination phase. This hands-on approach also allowed us to delve deep into the needs of youth, understanding their engagement and benefits while helping them realise their ideas. This accomplishment and the results from the projects not only showcases the active involvement and empowerment of young individuals but also demonstrates their potential to create tangible impacts in their communities if given the space and resources. We hope that exploring these youth projects can inspire youth, youth workers and youth organisations to engage in similar activities.

Planning: From Ideation to Realisation

The journey of the youth-led projects within I.D.E.A began with a focus on meticulous planning. It initiated with non-formal based ideation, group-building, brainstorming sessions, nurturing the creative potential of young minds as they devised innovative solutions to local social issues. Teamwork was emphasised, fostering collaboration and cooperation among the participants. These aspiring young change-makers were guided through the intricate process of writing project applications, ensuring they grasped the essentials of project planning. As part of this planning phase, participants engaged in reflections, both individually and collectively. Mentoring was available for the youth in every step of the way.

Implementing: Transforming Ideas into Action

The implementation phase marked the transition from planning to action. Participants put their ideas into motion by acquiring necessary materials and resources. They received consistent support, both physically and emotionally, ensuring they had the guidance and assistance required to navigate through the practical aspects of project execution. The support network enabled them to handle challenges, maintain momentum, and keep the projects on track. The groups tested out different systems and arrangements to keep control over the project progress: some used the Business Model Canvas, some made video vlogs, some made documents, others used project management tools such as Trello. Throughout this stage, a strong emphasis was placed on documenting and covering every aspect of the projects, building a rich narrative of their development and outcomes.

Dissemination: Sharing Impact and Reflection

The final phase revolved around sharing the results and impact of the projects. Dissemination efforts extended to various levels, from local to international. Participants disseminated the project results, showcasing the tangible outcomes they had achieved. Simultaneously, they shared and reflected on their personal experiences and journeys through the creation of videos or engaging in reflection activities. The projects were presented on different stages, such as Ungt Engasjement in Kristiansand, the Diversity Festival in Pécs, and the I.D.E.A. conference on Teams, allowing the young participants to present their accomplishments and insights to diverse audiences. This last phase served to not only highlight their achievements but also to inspire and educate others about their experiences in youth-led social entrepreneurship. They made their own dissemination strategies, while also contributing to the I.D.E.A. dissemination with the creation of the Handbook, the video progress videos, and their project pages on this website.