On August 1, 2024, took place a pivotal Youth Council Session titled “Meeting with Decision Makers.” This engaging event brought together young people and local leaders, creating a platform for dynamic dialogue and action-oriented discussions aimed at fostering tangible community improvements. Central to this significant occasion was Francisco Cabral, vogal of the União das Freguesias de Setúbal, who engaged directly with youth participants to delve into pressing local issues.
Participants gathered with anticipation and hope, eager to bridge the gap between youth perspectives and the processes that influence local governance. The introduction of Francisco Cabral reaffirmed the commitment to actively listen and integrate youthful insights, signaling an openness to collaborative problem-solving.
To set the stage, an icebreaker activity encouraged participants and leaders to connect. Designed to foster rapport, these engaging activities successfully established an atmosphere of trust and communication, allowing for an open and meaningful exchange of ideas throughout the day.
The session progressed with a comprehensive overview of the Youth Council’s Objectives. This presentation highlighted the council’s goals, structural framework, and previous initiatives, serving as a testament to the council’s enduring role in community governance and its commitment to proactive engagement.
A highlight of the morning was a presentation by Joao Bras, a council member on “Youth Engagement in Local Governance.” This overview emphasized the crucial role of youth voices in decision-making, illustrating how their contributions lead to more inclusive and innovative community solutions.
After a brief coffee break, the focus shifted to presenting youth proposals. Tackling critical issues such as education, employment, and social inclusion, youth council members shared actionable suggestions aimed at improving conditions for young people. The enthusiasm and creativity demonstrated were both inspiring and thought-provoking.
The session resumed after a networking lunch break, preparing for the cornerstone of the day: the Open Floor Discussion. This crucial segment allowed Francisco Cabralto respond to the innovative proposals presented by the youth.
Participants tackled the challenge of accessing affordable housing head-on. They discussed housing insecurity, shared testimonials from peers, and successfully formulated a detailed proposal. This outlined the necessity for youth-friendly housing policies and support services for young renters. Their thoughtfully crafted proposal was presented to the representative of the Municipality of Setubal during discussions, initiating conversations about potential policy changes that could better support young residents. Young people also shared their concerns regarding the difficulties they face in finding satisfying and secure employment. They presented during the event their recommendations aimed at enhancing access to youth-oriented job programs and services. Participants also identified barriers to accessibility in public spaces for individuals with disabilities. They initiated a discussion about enhancing accessibility in community facilities, ensuring inclusivity across the board. Throughout the session, the council made significant strides in discussing and addressing issues related to xenophobia and racism. By confronting these sensitive topics, the youth inspired a deeper understanding and encouraged ongoing conversations with local leaders about fostering a more inclusive community environment.
The Open Floor Discussion with Francisco Cabral was a vibrant exchange, with the decision-maker providing constructive insights and feedback. The dialogue underscored the invaluable contribution of youth perspectives in enriching policymaking and implementing locally-driven solutions.
As the session concluded, there was a sense of achievement and a reinforced commitment to youth involvement in governance. The event in Portugal exemplified how collaboration between young people and decision-makers can drive substantial community change. Participants left empowered, equipped with fresh ideas and strengthened alliances with both peers and leaders.
