Jeugdverbinden 2.0: Young people shaping the future of Nijmegen

Yavuz Goktas
6 hours ago
2 min read

With Jeugdvverbinden (Youth Connect) 2.0: Our City, Our Voice, Bildung Nijmegen brings together young people from different neighbourhoods of Nijmegen to reflect on their role in the city and actively contribute to its future. The project is built on a simple yet powerful idea: young people should not only be the subject of policy discussions, but active participants in shaping the decisions that affect their lives.

The first physical gathering of the project marked the beginning of this shared journey. Young people from across the city came together to exchange ideas and experiences around themes that matter to them and their communities. In an open and welcoming atmosphere, participants explored topics such as youth participation, local decision-making, and the ways in which young voices can become more visible and influential within the city.

After a short presentation introducing the project, the conversation quickly became lively and engaging. Participants discussed what meaningful participation looks like for young people today, how their perspectives can be better represented, and how they can contribute to shaping the future of Nijmegen together.

To help participants get to know each other, the evening started with a human bingo icebreaker, creating a relaxed and friendly environment that encouraged conversation and connection. What began as a simple activity quickly turned into many spontaneous exchanges, laughter, and the first steps toward new friendships and collaborations.

The evening concluded with a shared iftar and dinner at Mawteni, where participants enjoyed delicious Lebanese dishes while continuing their conversations in a more informal setting. These moments around the table created space for deeper connections, personal stories, and reflections about life in Nijmegen and the ambitions young people have for their city.

During the meeting, the team also presented the roadmap for Youth Connect 2.0. Over the coming months, participants will explore key themes that young people in Nijmegen consider important, ranging from participation in local policy and civic life to strengthening youth networks across the city. The project aims to provide a platform where ideas can grow into concrete initiatives and where young people can collaborate with each other and with local stakeholders.

Participants will also have the opportunity to expand their networks, develop new skills, and take part in European exchanges and training opportunities connected to the wider Erasmus+ youth network. At the end of their participation, they will receive a European certificate recognizing their engagement and contributions.

More importantly, Jeugdverbinden 2.0 is about building a community. A space where young people can meet, share experiences, learn from one another, and feel encouraged to contribute to the society they are part of.

This first gathering was only the beginning. In the upcoming meetings, participants will dive deeper into the themes they identified themselves and work together toward concrete ideas and initiatives that can strengthen youth participation in Nijmegen.

At its heart, Youth Connect 2.0 is about connection—between young people, between communities, and between ideas that can shape a stronger and more inclusive city.

If you would like to learn more about the project or join the initiative, feel free to reach out to our team.