In collaboration with the European Youth Foundation, Project ACTIVATE is an exciting capacity-building opportunity for young people engaged in inclusive political and civic participation, cultivating a generation of changemakers across Europe. ACTIVATE is delivered in two parts: first, a series of digital workshops introducing the principles of advocacy and campaigning, and fostering a peer-to-peer learning network. Second, a four-day immersive training session, including advocacy visits designed to give participants first-hand insight into how to influence meaningful change. Through Project ACTIVATE, participants will gain the skills and tools to co-create campaigns addressing local issues in their communities, driving lasting, holistic impact.
This opportunity is open to individuals:
- Aged 16 to 35 on the 12th June or before
- With lived-migration experience
- Associated with YREMASUD-led organisation operating in the EU
Venue:
Part 1: Online, 2nd May 2026 to 30th May 2026
Part 2: In-Person (Brussels)
Part 1:
Session 1: Introduction to Advocacy and Campaigning – 2nd May 2026
An introduction to the core principles of advocacy and campaigning, focusing on the identification and framing of key issues, alongside mapping challenges affecting YREMASUD communities to inform future engagement.
Session 2: Understanding the EU – 9th May 2026
An overview of EU institutions and legislative processes, outlining how decisions are made at the European level.
Session 3: Media Engagement – 16th May 2026
An examination of the role of media in advocacy, covering strategic communication, message development, and engagement in the digital landscape.
Session 4: High-Impact Event Management – 23rd May 2026
A structured approach to event planning, including key elements of project management, risk assessment, and inclusive design.
Session 5: Decolonial Frameworks in Advocacy – 30th May 2026
An introduction to decolonial perspectives, exploring the links between colonial legacies and contemporary advocacy issues, with a focus on migration.
Part 2:
12th June 2026 – 16th June 2026
Day 1: Introduction to Policy Influencing
Introduces key concepts in policy-making, influencing, and advocacy, alongside a recap of the online sessions to consolidate prior learning. Includes interactive elements to support group cohesion, as well as an intercultural evening.
Day 2: Movement Building
Focuses on the foundations of collective action, including community organising, stakeholder mapping, and engagement strategies. Explores approaches to coalition building to strengthen advocacy efforts.
Day 3: Campaign Brainstorming
Covers the core principles of effective campaigns, including theory of change and strategic planning. Provides space for participants to begin shaping their own campaign ideas.
Day 4: Mapping Influence & Advocacy Visits
Examines how to identify key influencers and leverage points for change, alongside practical guidance on engaging policymakers. Includes a visit to the Parlamentarium and insights into parliamentary engagement.
Day 5: Amplifying Engagement & Campaign Launch
Focuses on strengthening communication and media engagement, with an emphasis on presenting and refining campaign initiatives. Concludes with participant campaign pitches.
Disclaimer:
While applications for the online sessions are open to all, consideration for the in-person training is limited to participants available for the full programme, including the online component. Please note that the programme may be subject to adjustments.
Fill in the form below:
https://forms.gle/J64dL2fRRHRY2k2dA
Deadline to sign up: 24th April 2026 17:00 CEST
