I grew up in the French countryside, where I developed a certain sensitivity to injustice and to nature—all within a Western society that claims to set “an example” in these areas. I have always been driven by a desire to work toward a world where everyone can live as they choose, regardless of gender, skin color, place of birth, religion, or sexual orientation. We are all part of the ecosystem that enables us to live in peace.

I decided to study Political Science and participate in the “Youth for Youth” program to play an active role in creating a better society. This experience, among others, gave me insight into my surroundings and helped me understand how to take action to build a fairer, more sustainable world—acting to awaken the peace that lies dormant within each of us and spread it to the entire world. In my view, educating and raising public awareness is the foundation for any action. Young people are the key players in the society of today and tomorrow; that is why we need to encourage them to question both themselves and the world around them.

ADAM: “The project gave me a great opportunity to learn about many topics in which I am very interested. Over the course of a week, I had the opportunity to attend several talks by speakers who focus on environmental issues, human rights, or gender equality, among others. Thus, I felt well prepared to go to the classroom to speak and transmit the knowledge gained by the professionals to the students. The project is very well organized thanks to the Helsinki Spain team that works to make the volunteer experience the best possible.”

ANA R.: “The experience of volunteering with ‘Youth for Youth’ has been very interesting and enriching. On the one hand I have been able to expand my knowledge on topics such as mental health, gender and human rights thanks to the experts’ lectures, and on the other hand, I have been able to transmit this knowledge in the classroom which has been very rewarding. And let’s not forget the amazing people I’ve meet while volunteering in this project! Thank you to the Helsinki Spain team for organizing projects like this.”

I don`t know who has discovered more, if them by listening to us or us by reflecting with them… The best way to change the world is to plant in them the seed that made me want to change it.

My experience in the project “Jóvenes para Jóvenes” was excellent. I loved the course because it has complemented my formation, but at the same time it has brought new ideas and perspectives on transcendental topics to achieve a more just and better world. The opportunity to attend schools is a great way to raise awareness among the youth, they are the carriers of the change needed. The workshops make it possible for the students to participate in the real world, but most importantly it incentivizes them to think critically. Knowing that through hands-on sessions it is possible to raise awareness and sensitize is satisfactory, it allows young people to reflect on problems they might not have heard of before, it is also important that they feel like they are a part of the change being made. As a volunteer of this project, I strongly advice other people to participate in it, in my case it made me want to keep fighting through education.

I am very grateful to have participated in the 25th Edition of Youth for Youth: Educating in Human Rights and SDGs. It has been a pleasure to be part of this initiative that allows university students to receive training in Human Rights and SDGs and then pass on this knowledge to children and teenagers. Thank you to all the speakers and organizers for their commitment and for providing us with key tools to foster a more just and sustainable society. I am eager to continue learning and contributing!

Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in the 25th Edition of Youth for Youth: Educating in Human Rights and SDGs, an incredible experience developed by Helsinki España. During this training, we gained tools and knowledge on raising youth awareness about highly relevant topics such as mental health, the 2030 Agenda, and taking action against persistent inequalities in our society. Beyond the knowledge gained, the most valuable part has been sharing this process with other young people committed to growth and transformation. Thank you, Helsinki España, for making this possible! And thank you to all the speakers and organizers for their dedication and for providing us with key tools to foster a more just and sustainable society. I am eager to continue learning and contributing!

It is very inspiring to see the creativity of students. Emotional education should be addressed from a very early age with children to prevent bullying. In this project, young people show that with few resources but a lot of determination, education can be transformed.

You reap what you sow, and Helsinki Spain, through Youth for Youth, is successfully planting the seeds of change it hopes to see. Working on this project, both as a volunteer and an intern, has given me a broader perspective on the processes needed to transform realities. This initiative addresses crucial issues that don’t usually reach schools, reaching those who will truly be the next agents of change. Being part of Youth for Youth has undoubtedly been a wonderful opportunity to sow what I hope to one day reap.

Participating in Youth for Youth has been one of the most enriching volunteer experiences I have ever had. I loved being part of a project that introduces children and adolescents to vital topics—such as human rights, equality, and the SDGs—issues that often go overlooked in schools. Beyond my own personal and professional growth, I had the opportunity to help other young people reflect and develop a greater sense of social commitment. So, if you are passionate about human rights and enjoy working with young people, this is undoubtedly the volunteer opportunity for you.