GSECCPUG – Grow, Share, Engage! Cultivating Civic Participation through Urban Gardens
Youth Empowerment – “Green Leaders Initiative” WP3 – Bulgaria Grant decision number: 101192018
From 12 to 15 January 2026, a transnational youth empowerment event titled “Green Leaders Initiative” was successfully implemented in Bulgaria as part of the CERV-funded project “Grow, Share, Engage! Cultivating Civic Participation through Urban Gardens” (Grant No. 101192018). Organized under Work Package 3 (WP3), the initiative brought together 25 participants from eight European countries—Spain, Bulgaria, Italy, Greece, Hungary, Romania, Poland, and Portugal—under the coordination of the Bulgarian Youth Association.
Hosted across three locations—Sofia, Vratsa, and the eco-village of Oslen Krivodol—the event served as a dynamic platform for strengthening youth leadership, fostering civic responsibility, and promoting active participation in environmental and sustainability-related policymaking.
A Comprehensive Approach to Youth Empowerment
The “Green Leaders Initiative” was designed to equip young people, youth workers, municipal representatives, and local stakeholders with the tools and competencies needed to engage meaningfully in environmental advocacy. Through a combination of structured workshops, policy discussions, field visits, and community dialogues, participants explored key topics such as climate action, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable urban development.
Central to the programme were interactive learning sessions facilitated by experts from Sofia Development Association (SofiaLab) and environmental practitioners. These sessions focused on leadership development, strategic thinking, and the co-creation of youth-led campaigns addressing local environmental challenges.
Participants were actively involved in identifying environmental priorities, exchanging good practices, and designing advocacy strategies aimed at tangible local impact. This participatory approach ensured not only knowledge acquisition but also the development of a strong sense of ownership and responsibility among attendees.
Institutional Engagement and Field Experience
A distinctive feature of the event was its strong emphasis on institutional collaboration and real-world engagement. Participants engaged directly with representatives from the Municipality of Sofia, gaining insights into the city’s Climate Neutrality Agreement and Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan. Constructive dialogue enabled young participants to contribute ideas and proposals, reinforcing the link between youth voices and policy processes.
Field visits further enriched the experience. In Vratsa, participants explored biodiversity conservation efforts at the Nature Conservation Centre “Natura” and engaged with the National Youth Center. The programme continued in Oslen Krivodol, where participants interacted with local authorities, community leaders, and green youth initiatives. These exchanges provided valuable perspectives on sustainable practices in rural contexts and highlighted the importance of grassroots leadership.
Transnational Exchange and Digital Dimension
While the event was conducted in situ, its impact was extended through an international online livestream hosted via Zoom. This digital component enabled additional stakeholders and partners from across Europe to participate remotely, enhancing the transnational dimension and visibility of the initiative. The format contributed to broader knowledge exchange and strengthened cooperation among project partners.
Measurable Impact and Outreach
The event demonstrated significant impact both locally and internationally. In addition to the 25 direct participants, approximately 32 local stakeholders were engaged through various activities. Media coverage and social media dissemination further expanded the reach, achieving a total measurable audience of 647 individuals.
The initiative successfully:
- Strengthened youth leadership and advocacy skills
- Enhanced understanding of environmental policy frameworks
- Promoted active civic participation and community engagement
- Fostered international collaboration and exchange
- Established new institutional partnerships, particularly with the Municipality of Sofia
Notably, engagement with the rural community of Oslen Krivodol—home to approximately 100 residents—facilitated meaningful dialogue on sustainable development and resulted in regional media coverage, raising awareness of youth-led environmental action.
Sustainability and Future Outlook
The outcomes of the “Green Leaders Initiative” extend beyond the duration of the event. Participants collaboratively defined next steps for continued advocacy, awareness campaigns, and community-based initiatives. The activity also laid the groundwork for future transnational cooperation within the project framework, including upcoming activities in Portugal, Italy, Romania, and Greece.
All participants were awarded Certificates of Attendance, recognizing their active involvement and contribution to the project’s objectives.
Conclusion
The “Green Leaders Initiative” stands as a strong example of how youth empowerment, when combined with environmental action and institutional collaboration, can drive meaningful civic participation. By bridging local engagement with European cooperation, the initiative contributed to the broader goals of the CERV programme—strengthening democratic life, fostering active citizenship, and promoting sustainability through youth leadership.
