In July and September, we hosted two impactful events as part of the Erasmus+ KA2 project “YOU CYCLE: Young Changemakers for Circular Local Economy.” These “Local Social Impact Hub” events brought together young people eager to make a difference in their communities. With the guidance of social entrepreneurs from Apadrina un Olivo, Espacio Geranios, and other local changemakers, participants were given the tools and inspiration needed to develop their own social business ideas.
The first event, held on July 10th and 11th with a group of youth, and another on September 17 with students from Padre Piquer, focused on empowering participants with training in the Social Canvas model. This method helps them design sustainable, impactful business ideas centered on the principles of the circular economy. Over the course of the sessions, participants worked in small groups, brainstorming and sharing their visions for social enterprises.
At the same time, our partner organizations in Turkey (EIG) and Greece (Eko Greece) have developed the event with local social entrepreneurs.
Since September, we have been offering monthly mentorship and training sessions to continue supporting these young changemakers. By the end of the year, two of the top ideas will be selected, and representatives from each winning team will have the opportunity to travel to Istanbul in February 2025 to present their projects on an international stage.
The goal of this initiative is to inspire and equip young people with the skills and knowledge to pursue social entrepreneurship while contributing to a greener, more sustainable economy. This journey doesn’t end with idea generation; through ongoing guidance, participants will have the opportunity to turn their ideas into actionable, impactful ventures.