On August 21, 2024, a dynamic gathering of young minds and decision-makers took place in Bulgaria, at the Youth Council Session: Meeting with Decision Makers. This event was a crucial step in bridging the gap between the youth and local governance, highlighting the power of youth engagement in community development.
The day began with enthusiastic registration and welcome remarks from the facilitators. They set the tone for the session, introducing the deputy mayor of Vidin, who had come to listen and engage with the young participants. This initial interaction laid the groundwork for a day filled with dialogue and inspiration.
The morning continued with an overview of the Youth Council’s Objectives. This presentation was instrumental in outlining the council’s goals, its organizational structure, and emphasizing the critical importance of youth participation in local governance. It was a call to action, encouraging the young attendees to see themselves as vital contributors to their communities.
A highlight of the morning was the keynote speech titled “Empowering Youth in Local Decision-Making.” Delivered by Nikolay Tsolov, an expert in youth engagement, the speech underscored the transformative power of involving young people in community issues. It echoed the sentiment that when youth voices influence policy, the entire community benefits from fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
After a short coffee break, the session resumed with Youth Council members stepping up to present their proposals. This segment gave the youth a platform to voice their ideas and concerns on key community issues relevant to their lives, such as education, employment, and public services. Each presentation was met with attentive listening, highlighting the importance of these perspectives in shaping future policies.
The afternoon began with a lunch break, giving attendees the chance to reflect on the morning’s discussions and network informally. Conversations flowed over meals, further strengthening the connections formed earlier in the day.
The core of the afternoon was the Open Forum Discussion. This session allowed for a vibrant exchange of ideas, where the deputy mayor responded to the youth proposals presented earlier. The dialogue provided insights into the complexities of policy implementation and the tangible possibilities for integrating young people’s ideas into actionable plans. The open forum highlighted the importance of ongoing communication between youth and leaders and underscored the mutual benefits of collaborative problem-solving.
