Our World Our Global North and Global Souths’ Youth for a more Sustainable and Equal World

Introduction

Our World, Our Planet is a groundbreaking Erasmus+ initiative empowering young people from Italy, Austria, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda to tackle global challenges like climate change and gender inequality. Through virtual exchanges, training sessions, and advocacy, we’re inspiring youth to become the next generation of change-makers for a more sustainable and equal world.

Climate change and gender inequality are two of the most pressing issues of our time, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. Despite their potential to drive solutions, young people often lack the platforms and resources to lead the way. This project aligns with our organization’s vision to nurture active, informed youth who can bridge the gap between local challenges and global action.

What we’re trying to achieve

The projects’ main objective is to promote intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding between youth in the Global North and South through virtual exchanges, equipping them with digital and soft skills to address global challenges like climate change and gender inequality.

Specific objectives:

Empower youth to take active roles in decision-making processes and advocacy efforts on climate action and gender equality. Develop digital literacy, critical thinking, and intercultural communication skills among young participants. Focus on empowering young women by providing leadership training and opportunities to engage in policy making and advocacy. Build partnerships and networks among youth organizations to sustain long-term advocacy efforts for sustainability and equality. Engage youth in identifying and implementing "glocal" solutions that address the interconnectedness of local and global sustainability challenges.

Activities

Virtual Exchanges: Peer-to-peer learning sessions on climate action and gender equality.

Training Workshops: Focused on digital literacy, advocacy, and leadership, with a spotlight on empowering young women.

Community Engagement: Local and international awareness campaigns and advocacy events.

Target Groups

The project empowers youth aged 18–30, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, including young women, university students, and youth workers. This project offers them tools to lead sustainable initiatives and advocate for global change.

Our Expected Impact/ Reach

• Reaching over 1,300 youth from diverse regions, fostering critical thinking and civic action.
• Engaged 200 youth workers to sustain long-term impact in their communities.

Partners & Collaborators

The project is made possible through collaboration with organizations including:

• We World (Italy, Kenya, Tanzania)
• Südwind (Austria)
• Organization of African Youth (Kenya)
• Young and Alive Initiative (Tanzania)
• Environmental Alert (Uganda)

Lessons & Challenges

While technology has opened doors for virtual collaboration, limited internet access in some regions has been a hurdle. We’ve adapted with localized solutions, like providing connectivity packages and scheduling flexibility for participants.

Timeline

July 2023 - June 2026