As part of the Youth4Development project, the Youth Café in Niš brought together young people and decision-makers in an open and informal setting. The idea was simple: create a space where youth can share their concerns and propose solutions, while institutions listen and show support.
The youth-led campaigns focused on key local issues such as:
· environmental protection and recycling,
· stray dog challenges,
· improving public transport through a smart bus application.
Public officials joined the conversation, expressing openness to collaboration, which resulted in a clear commitment to strengthen youth–institution cooperation in Niš. What made the event stand out was the use of the Youth Café methodology, interactive tools, and youth-moderated discussions. Participants also had the chance to explore the work of the Science Technology Park and several startups, linking youth activism with innovation.
Youth4Development is an international project aimed at empowering young people across Europe to actively engage in social change through dialogue, creative methods, and local initiatives. The project brings together partners from different countries and sectors, including CLNR , Diesis Network, Youth Included, Hub Nicosia and our organisation Young Ambassadors.