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Introduction to the toolkit
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Lessons learned
The Sustainable Participation Goals (SPGs) project is a European initiative focused on empowering youth to engage actively with the political and social life at both local and European Union level. With the 2024 European Parliament elections and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at its core, the project aims to address the gap between young people's awareness of global challenges and their understanding of how the EU can drive change. The project specifically targets youth aged 17 to 25, many of whom may feel disconnected from European institutions or disillusioned with the political process but share a concern for sustainability and social justice.
Over a span of 24 months, SPGs has involved 250+ young participants from four different European countries: Italy, France, Portugal and Romania. These youths, many facing social or economic exclusion, were provided with opportunities to explore the EU’s structures, policies, and values through interactive sessions, discussions with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), community-based activities, theatre performances and transnational youth mobilities. Through this engagement, young people were encouraged to reflect on the SDGs, discuss the impact of political decisions on these goals, and advocate for actionable solutions within their local communities. The project is built on the principles of the EU Youth Strategy, which emphasizes the importance of social inclusion, participation, and personal development.
One of the project’s primary outcomes is the creation of tangible resources that extend beyond the life of the initiative: the Guide to EU Elections for new voters, a resource developed by youth for their peers, with the aim to empower young voters by providing them with the information they need to form opinions and participate confidently in the democratic process; the Recommendation papers, addressed to local and European policymakers, a key advocacy tool summarizing the most pressing concerns and recommendations raised by young people on SDGs 5, 8 and 13.
The third resource with which SPGs intend to contribute to the European system is this Toolkit, which is designed for youth workers, educators, and organisations who wish to replicate the SPGs experience. The Toolkit is more than just a collection of lessons learned; it is a practical and actionable guide that outlines how to foster meaningful participation and engagement among young people in a way that is scalable and adaptable to different contexts. Structured to offer clear, step-by-step guidance on how to organise and implement activities that engage young people with fewer opportunities, it covers a wide range of topics we consider essential for building an impactful program.
This Toolkit is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a flexible framework that allows organisations to adapt the methodology to their specific local contexts. It provides a roadmap on how to replicate the SPGs experience, offering insights on how to motivate and empower young people to participate actively in the political process and contribute to a more sustainable and democratic future.
Recommended tools from the SPGs experience
Stories from our youth participants
Feedback from the “field”: the impact of SPGs project and stories from our participating youth after taking part in the SPGs experience.
My experience with SPGs turned out to be truly impactful, in the best sense of the word. When I started participating in the activities, I lacked confidence and was not sure what I wanted for myself. But through more communication, problem-solving, and engaging with so many different people, I rediscovered myself and developed mentally, with a much stronger sense of critical thinking than before.
A.
Romania
One of the memories I always recall when I visit the city centre of Lisbon is the exhibition of our photographs in the gallery. As an art student, I included this experience on my CV, along with my trip to Romania. It holds a special place in my memory and on my CV. I truly enjoyed participating in the SPGs project.
J.F
Portugal
At just 16 years old, he was the youngest participant in the SPGs project when he joined the group for the Paris mobility in February 2024. At that time, he would sometimes display harmful attitudes toward minorities, including Roma, Jews, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. However, through months of dedicated work, open conversations, and mentorship within the SPGs project, he began to experience profound personal growth. Through the SPGs project, he has gone through an obvious transformation, becoming a humbler and more open-minded individual. Among a diverse group of youth participants, he learned to appreciate the value of empathy, self-awareness, and diversity. His experience underscores the transformative power of education, dialogue, and mentorship in reshaping attitudes and fostering personal growth.
Youth worker
Romania
Participating in the SPGs project was a transformative experience in many ways. Thanks to this opportunity, I was able to meet boys and girls from different parts of the European Union, with whom I forged deep and meaningful bonds. The confrontation with other cultures and mentalities taught me how important dialogue, listening and mutual respect are. In addition, the project allowed us to improve our language skills, particularly in communicating in English. Although at first the language barrier seemed an obstacle, day after day I gained more confidence, discovering that with commitment and open-mindedness it is possible to communicate even with those who come from completely different realities than my own. But perhaps the most important aspect of this path was what I learnt about myself and my rights. Thanks to the meetings and activities, I became more aware of my rights as an individual and as a citizen of the world, while understanding the importance of defending and respecting the rights of others. This has made me reflect on how I can actively contribute to building a more just and inclusive society. For these reasons, I would without hesitation recommend future generations to participate in projects of this kind. Not only do they offer the opportunity to grow personally and professionally, but they help to develop a greater awareness of the world we live in, of the rights and responsibilities we have towards ourselves and others. I hope that more and more young people will have a similar experience, because I am convinced that positive change starts with knowledge and mutual respect.
Regina
Italy
Travelling abroad as part of the SPG project was very beneficial for me. I discovered Genoa. It is a city I had never been to before. It gave me the opportunity to meet people I might never have met otherwise. I realised that Italians are no different from us, even if we do not come from the same place, and that we share a lot in common. One memory will stay with me for a long time: when we found ourselves on top of a hill with an incredible view of the sea. I told myself that there was more to life than my neighbourhood and its tower blocks. I said to myself that one day I'd like to live somewhere close to the sea.
Kayysia
France
Participating in the SPGs project was an amazing opportunity for me. The mobility in Romania, which took place in April 2024, helped me to develop a greater awareness of what is happening in the world and offered me an excellent opportunity to improve my expression and communication skills in English. During the activities, I had the pleasure of meeting young people my age, not only from Italy, but also from other European countries. Working together, we were able to discuss a wide range of topics, exchanging opinions and testimonies. We addressed major issues, such as climate change and gender equality, but also more personal topics, such as our habits, ideals and future plans. This exchange allowed me to get to know cultures and realities different from my own, giving me a new perspective on life. The most valuable part of this experience is the friendships I have made, which I will always carry with me, and the enrichment I have received through the journey, the laughter and the exchanges I have experienced.
Anna
Italy
For me, SPGs is a project that helped me overcome many personal obstacles, such as public speaking and self-doubt. At the same time, I learned how to treat those around me kindly and to help them as much as I can.
D.
Romania
This project has opened my eyes to the difficulties we have in dealing with ecological issues. We talked a lot about this issue, and nobody agreed on the resources needed to work on it. I think that sorting waste is not enough, but that it is difficult to tackle the big companies. Others think that we need to start with the little things. I was able to share these issues with young people of different nationalities. We are all in the same boat and we all want to make an effort.
Lina
France
The project had a positive impact on me. I realised what I want to do in the future and how important it is to embrace the change that starts from within. I am proud of myself, and I am grateful to have participated in this project. I hope there will be many more projects like this!
A.
Romania
I participated in the mobility program in Genoa, and I will be participating in the mobility program in Sweden. During the holidays, I thought a lot about the trip to Genoa because it was a unique experience that allowed me to explore a new culture and make new friends. I often found myself reminiscing about the trip and how wonderful everything was. I loved being in a different place, and I hope everyone has the chance to experience something similar at least once in their lives. Although Italian culture is similar to ours (Portuguese), I sometimes find myself watching films in Italian for the nostalgia of the trip. Even when I hear tourists talking on the street, I can't help but think about the amazing journey I had.
JL
Portugal
I would like to share my post-trip experience that reminded me of something similar. I met a group on a night out that had a mix of nationalities like at SPGs. Some were French, some Italian, and some Belgian. It definitely reminded me of the times I spent at SPGs!
THE
Portugal
Cluj is a very special city. The capital of Transylvania, it is a major cultural and university city. There are many impressive places of see here and whatever your relationship with religion, those places are well worth a visit. St. Michael's Church, for example, is one of the oldest Gothic buildings in Romania, but when a group is 100% made up of young Muslims, you think it is not worth trying – and yet, spurred on by the curiosity of the other groups, everyone ends up inside, taking selfies and photos. Cultural tourism brings people together.
Youth worker
France
The SPGs project has had a significant impact on my daily life, making it easier for me to participate in groups of young people my age. It has pushed me to constantly improve my English level, not only for my future, but also to explore the world around me. Furthermore, it transformed my perception of the European Union, which is always ready to face changes and respond to the needs of young people. Thanks to this project, I had the opportunity to meet many new people, both from Italy and from other countries in the community. This experience was extraordinary: I was able to meet new cultures, exchange ideas and learn words in different languages. During the project, we addressed three key goals of the 2030 Agenda: climate change, employment and gender equality. These issues are fundamental to me and deserve our utmost attention. For example, to combat climate change, it is essential to protect the environment and reduce pollution. The issue of employment is complex and has a direct impact on young people. Finally, the issue of gender equality, which is still relevant in 2024, requires concrete solutions. In conclusion, the SPGs project has positively enriched my vision of the European Union and the 2030 Agenda.
Hiba
Italy
Every time I saw a Fiat and heard the music, I was reminded of the trip. I felt that after the trip to Genoa, the school was able to come together more.
Jin
Portugal
The SPGs project has been helpful in changing my attitude towards people I do not know. The experience has pushed me to become more curious and sociable with new people. Trying the culinary specialities of other countries was surprising. I also realised that, after getting involved in the project activities, I am now more sensitive to environmental protection in my daily life. I was impressed by the helpfulness I observed in Lisbon among people working in public services; I would like to find this kind of attitude in the city where I live.
Jamal
Italy
The SPGs project gave me the opportunity to travel and discover other countries. It allowed me to meet different people. Above all, it helped me to express myself in a language other than French. Speaking a language in real life is more difficult than learning it at school. Because it requires you not to be shy. Spending time with young people my own age, who also had to speak a language that wasn't their own, helped me with that.
Mahamat
13. November, 2024.
I participated in the mobility program in Italy and Lisbon. It was a fantastic experience because I got to know the culture and meet amazing people. I loved being able to talk with the group from France; it had been a long time since I had spoken my native language, and it felt great. I spent the holidays reminiscing about those moments and kept in touch with everyone. I enjoyed sharing my adventures in Italy, and I can't wait to make new memories to share!
MV
Portugal
Within the SPG project, I had the opportunity to collaborate with passionate and dedicated people who not only strive to make a difference in their environment, but also inspire others to join these noble causes. This experience has been extremely valuable to me, as it helped me broaden my horizon and explore new perspectives. Participating in the project pushed me to grow as a person, learning to appreciate and make use of the knowledge and skills of those around me. I observed how a collaborative and stimulating environment can positively influence our thoughts and attitudes. Additionally, I improved my ability to express my point of view, gaining the courage to stand by my ideas and contribute actively to discussions. Through this project, I not only learned new things, but also became more aware of the impact each of us can have on our community. This experience motivated me to continue exploring ways in which I can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable environment.
A.
Romania
Once quiet and soft-spoken, this girl has developed into a confident and articulate young leader during her participation in the SPGs project. Embracing the opportunities the project offered, she participated in the mobility to Paris in February 2024 and the mobility to Lisbon in June 2024. Now, nearly two years after the beginning of the project, she is spearheading community change in her neighbourhood – gathering input from residents and organising meetings with the mayor's office to bring about positive transformations.
Youth worker
Romania
Throughout his time in the SPGs project, this young student stood out as a source of positivity, actively participating in weekly activities at his school and offering encouragement to his peers. In February 2024, he experienced two major firsts: his first time traveling by plane and his first time leaving his hometown, as he took part in the project’s mobility to Paris. Later, in May 2024, he engaged in the Forum Theatre training and activities, where he continued to push his boundaries and to grow. The participation in the SPGs project not only helped him overcome personal fears, but also fostered a deeper sense of confidence and maturity. It shifted his focus from individual challenges to a broader understanding of the collective role we all play in society.
Youth worker
Romania
Thanks to the SPGs project, I was able to meet girls with whom I have kept in touch through the networks. The activities around the themes of inequality and ecology enabled us to get together to discuss real problems and share our experiences. I was also able to work with boys without feeling judged. It was important for me to feel that I could express my point of view freely. The theatre helped me. I confronted my arguments with the boys and the discussions were constructive.
Dounia
France
I really enjoyed this project. I was able to see that the Italians are not that good at football. The Portuguese play well. But the French are still the best.
Alexandre
France
In the summer, I met a group of young people in Albufeira who reminded me of the trip in Genoa. Another important aspect is that I developed a better relationship with some of the students who took part in that same trip.
MAP
Portugal
Participating in the SPGs youth mobility in Romania broadened my horizons and enriched my knowledge, transforming my approach to new situations and social contexts that we experience on a daily basis. Not only did I have the opportunity to visit a new city and discover its history and culture, but I was also able to exchange with locals and young people from other European countries. This exchange focused on important issues that united us, allowing us to understand each other's points of view and break down the barriers of diversity. We worked in groups on social issues such as gender equality, climate change and immigration, sharing not only our personal experiences, but also the cultural, social and environmental experiences of our countries. A particularly interesting aspect was the discussion on the topic of immigration, approached through the technique of the Theatre of the Oppressed, which is partly inspired by Pirandello's theatre. In this format, we staged a topical issue such as immigration, with actors narrating and representing the topic. Then, we broke down the ‘fourth wall’ and involved the audience, making them part of the issue and inviting them to interact and propose solutions. I returned enriched by a unique experience, which offered me a new and unexpected perspective.
Vittoria
Italy
This girl made history as the first Roma student in her school, where 20% of the students are Roma, to ever participate in an Erasmus mobility. Her participation reflects the commitment of the SPGs project to diversity and to providing opportunities for those from underprivileged backgrounds – something often denied to the Roma community in Romania. Through the SPGs project, she not only travelled to Paris in February 2024, but also to Lisbon in June 2024, experiences that marked a turning point in her life. Once withdrawn, angry and excluded by her peers, she has become a confident, outspoken advocate for minority rights and representation. After nearly two years of active participation in project activities and events, she has undergone a profound transformation – becoming firmly grounded in her identity and actively involved in her community. This story powerfully illustrates the transformative impact of inclusion, support, and opportunity. Now driven by her own experience, she is committed to empowering more Roma children like herself to access the same opportunities and encouragement she gained through the SPGs project. With a growing sense of purpose, she is actively initiating ideas and projects aimed at fostering these opportunities for others. She exemplifies the importance of representation and highlights the potential within every young person to drive change – both within themselves and in their communities.
Youth worker
Romania
More than just a project, SPGs was a means for us to overcome fears like stage fright, public speaking, and so many others. We connected with young people from different countries and saw the world from a fresh perspective. We travelled, debated, and discussed issues that, for me, I had not even realised were real until then. Through it all, I learned to appreciate myself, with all my strengths and flaws—our differences truly make us whole! This project matured me, opening my eyes to the fact that we should not just think about ourselves, but about the entire society around us. I am happy to say that I genuinely believe this project has changed the mindset of many people!
G.
Romania
M. is a young man in his twenties from the same neighbourhood as K. He has a quick mind. He knows it. He even admits that he is ‘good’ at school. He is extremely kind, open and talkative. And like so many others in this situation, M. tends to ‘suffer’ in the group. In his neighbourhood, it is better to look ‘tough’ and closed off to get respect. When it comes to speaking a language other than French, he becomes shy in the presence of the other boys. After the first experience in Cluj, M. went on to Genoa. In Romania, he had started to get on very well with the group of Italians. During the second trip (to Genoa), it only took him a few hours to be able to hold a conversation (more or less coherently) in a mixture of English, Italian and with his hands. Meeting other young people with the same ‘difficulties’ gives him confidence and helps him to open up, making him feel like he is not alone. M. got good marks in his school at the end of the year.
Youth worker
France
When first joining the SPGs project, the topic of democracy was unfamiliar territory for her. What started as a curiosity, soon turned into a life-changing experience. For the first time in her life, she had the opportunity to travel internationally, stepping beyond her familiar surroundings. The exposure to new places and people opened her eyes not only to new cultures and ideas, but also to the principles of democracy in action.
As this teacher delved deeper into the project, she did not just learn about democracy in theory; she embraced its values in her everyday life. By listening with curiosity and practicing critical thinking alongside her students, she realised that there is room for diverse points of view – and that disagreement can also be an opportunity for learning.
Perhaps most importantly, she discovered her own place within European democracy; coming to the realisation that her voice matters – that she has the ability to contribute not only as a citizen, but also as an educator shaping the minds of future generations. Through the SPGs project, she transformed from a curious participant to a confident advocate for democratic values – values that now permeate her teaching, her interactions, and her approach to life.
Teacher's story
Romania
I would like to thank Zenit Youth Center for giving me the opportunity to participate in the SPGs project. Thanks to this experience, I greatly improved my level of English and had the chance to experience many adventures and meet new people. The project also opened my eyes to important issues that I was aware of but had ignored, such as gender discrimination. Thanks to the activities in Genoa and Lisbon, I have learnt to pay more attention to the environment, trying to respect it as best I can and to raise awareness when I have the opportunity. I also thank the European Union for this valuable experience and hope that there will be more similar initiatives in the future.
Yousef
Italy
The SPGs project has profoundly changed many youth participants. In particular V., a very shy boy who was afraid to express his opinions in public, for fear of being judged. The idea of having to speak in front of a group of people terrified him and he often felt overwhelmed by shame. Every activity, every meeting, every discussion was a step towards greater self-awareness; especially during the mobility in Genoa where he learned to confront others more openly and to get out of his comfort zone. If he had not had the opportunity to experience this project, he probably would never have discovered the potential he has inside of him. Thanks to this experience, he feels more prepared to face future challenges, without the fear of showing himself for what he is.
Sara, youth worker
Italy
Through my participation in the SPGs project, I can clearly say that it has helped me grow in every possible way. The activities I engaged in placed me in new situations where I learned how to communicate more effectively in English, discovered new cultural aspects through interactions with young people from different parts of Europe, and realised there are new perspectives through which I can view the world around me. Getting to know Liviu and Camilla [the project coordinators from the Romanian partner organisation Polylogos] has been especially impactful—they are incredible people, and I always look forward to the project-related activities with joy. I am certain I will continue to get involved in Erasmus projects even after I finish high school—you will not get rid of me!!!
O.
Romania
The SPGs project and its youth mobilities have had a profound impact on my life, especially socially. Travelling around Europe, I discovered how easy and natural it is to socialise. I met people from different cultures, each with their own history and characteristics, realising that despite my daily worries, no one was there to judge me. This experience taught me to live more lightly, to let my anxieties weigh less, and to enjoy the moments of genuine knowledge and socialisation. I realised how easy and effortless it is to form relationships and I started to improve my ability to open up to others, without fear. Now, I face challenges with a different perspective, appreciating each encounter as an opportunity to grow even more than before.
Diego
Italy
The Centre du Théâtre de l'Opprimé Paris works for the emancipation of everyone, especially the most vulnerable. On the first trip, to Romania, we encountered a problem: we only had boys in our group. For the second trip, to Genoa, we decided to bring a large majority of young women (12 out of 15 participants) travelling with us and we succeeded. They felt confident. Result: the three boys present were adorable and even shared a great deal with the young women. This also served to consolidate the work already done on gender inequality. Girl Power!
Youth worker
France
The SPGs project has enabled me to think about issues that are important for our generation. Inequality between women and men is a problem that requires young people to get involved. The activities offered helped me to better understand the issues surrounding discrimination and its consequences. Thanks to Forum Theatre, I was able to play a character who rebelled against male domination. I feel more confident now. It also enabled the boys to play oppressors and realise that they sometimes are.
Manel
France
Everyone knows that France is very attached to its culinary heritage. However, many young people lack this culture and their meals often boil down to junk food. Due to a lack of reference points and shyness, young people are tempted to go where they feel reassured – to eat a kebab. What a joy to hear from the French you N. in Genova: ‘The pasta was so good. I have never had pasta like that before!’
Youth worker
France
I never wanted to travel, I considered it a waste of energy and money. After joining this project, I realised that getting to know cultures other than my own, being in contact with unfamiliar people, seeing new places, understanding the traditions of another European country, trying unfamiliar foods and trying to cook them at home really appeals to me and has ignited the desire to travel again.
Alice
Italy