In June 2025, the second edition of the National Changemakers Training was hosted in Paris, France, bringing together young leaders from across Europe to strengthen their role as active citizens and advocates of European values. The training was organised as part of the SPEAK OUT project, funded by the EU through the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme, which empowers international youth to challenge stereotypes, counter misinformation, and build more inclusive communities.
The training was held in cooperation with the SPEAK OUT project partner European Alternatives, an organisation dedicated to promoting democracy, equality and culture beyond borders. Uniquely, the programme was integrated into the Transeuropa Festival, a transnational cultural and political festival. This gave participants the chance not only to attend training sessions, but also to engage in debates, workshops and artistic performances centred on activism, feminism and voices from the margins.
Over the course of three days, participants joined interactive workshops, strategy discussions and networking activities, gaining practical tools to strengthen outreach and communication in their national contexts. A key focus was on helping them take ownership of their narratives, promote European values both online and offline, and inspire civic engagement among their peers.
One of the highlights of the training was the joint development of a communication campaign, designed to encourage young people to become active citizens while raising awareness of opportunities offered by the European Union. The campaign will be rolled out in autumn 2025 across the social media channels of the project partners. By pooling their ideas and experiences, the group demonstrated the creativity and impact that comes from cross-border collaboration.
The training also provided a valuable space for exchange between ESN volunteers and youth workers linked to European Alternatives, allowing them to share good practices, explore new methods, and find inspiration for future cooperation. The atmosphere of the Transeuropa Festival enriched the experience, opening up conversations with artists, activists and thinkers working on today’s most pressing social challenges.
The National Changemakers Training in Paris highlighted the importance of equipping young leaders with the skills, confidence and connections needed to make a difference. As part of the wider SPEAK OUT project, it contributed to a growing movement of young people who are ready to stand up to misinformation, foster intercultural understanding, and strengthen democracy across Europe.
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