Contributed by APOD.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, 23 November 2023—In a significant move to enhance youth engagement and development across Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the city witnessed an impactful gathering of youth workers at the Espacio El Molino on Thursday, 23 November. The event, structured to foster the sharing of innovative practices and collaborative brainstorming, was marked by the participation of key stakeholders involved in youth work within the region.
The day commenced with an inspiring introduction speech by Charín González, the Councilwoman of Education and Youth from the City Hall of Santa Cruz, who underscored the importance of investing in youth as the cornerstone for building a resilient and vibrant community. Her address set a constructive tone for the day, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and the significant role of youth workers in shaping the future of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Showcasing Good Practices in Youth Engagement
A highlight of the event was the presentation of several pioneering initiatives that have substantially impacted youth engagement in the city. The event attendees were introduced to the successes and operational insights of the Youth Houses of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Distrito Joven, and Urban Garden El Sobradillo, each representing unique approaches to involving young people in meaningful activities and community life.
The Power Youth Up project was the main focal point, with staff members sharing their experiences and the project's achievements in empowering local youth. The presentation of the project's Intellectual Outputs (IOs), particularly the use of participatory art with clay from the IO2 to represent youth work, sparked creative discussions among participants.
Collaborative Workshops Unleash Creative Potential
In the spirit of interactive engagement, participants were divided into four small groups to delve into critical areas of youth work. These workshops focused on:
- Research on needs and motivation in youth, exploring frequency, tools, and resources for effective engagement.
- Creativity in educational and leisure proposals, aiming to brainstorm innovative approaches to youth activities.
- The use of technology in working with youth, discussing how digital tools can enhance engagement and learning.
- The use of gamification to attract and retain young people is a session dedicated to understanding the power of game-based learning and retention strategies.
The outcomes of these workshops were later presented to the larger group, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and potential strategies for enhancing youth work in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
A Catalyst for Future Collaborations
This multiplier event served as a platform for sharing best practices and innovative ideas and as a catalyst for future collaborations among youth workers, organizations, and stakeholders in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. By bringing diverse perspectives and expertise together, the event highlighted the collective commitment to empowering the city's youth through creative, inclusive, and forward-thinking approaches.
