Youth for Change 2023 - final event

On December 6th, we celebrated the grand finale of our Youth for Change programme.

Following months of engaging in reverse mentoring, during which the youth collaborated with employees from Schneider Electric to learn, exchange ideas, provide solutions, and offer mutual support, the time had come for the youngsters to deliver their final pitches. 

Who was involved ? 

PARTNERS  

In the 'Youth for Change Programme 2023', we are proud to have the support of Schneider Electric Foundation, Changemaker Companies, Eurofins Foundation, as well as two remarkable belgian youth organizations: Les Ambassadeurs d'Expression Citoyenne and Talented Youth Network (TYN). 

YOUNGSTERS  

• Anais, with Needie Paddie, is committed to ending menstrual precariousness.  
   
• Ilias developed the "Valio" application within Les Ambassadeurs d’Expression Citoyenne, designed to enhance educational management in French-speaking schools in Belgium. 
   
• Kawtar founded MOYRA, an ethical clothing brand produced by women, upholding principles of eco-responsibility and vegan-friendliness. 
   
• Florence co-founded DYS/DIX, an initiative providing support to individuals with learning disabilities. 
   
• Yagmur shared insights on how young people experience social entrepreneurship.  
   
• Nicky, with Les Rayons de Bernadette, creates playgrounds to integrate children with disabilities in Rwanda.

How did it work? 

Through reverse mentoring, the youth engaged with selected employees from Schneider Electric. This unique approach allows both parties to learn from one another, exchange ideas and solutions, and offer mutual support. Together, they strive to make a profound difference in society. 

 
The programme took them in a transformative journey to reflect on their impact:  

• An exciting kick-off to explore mindful listening, reverse mentoring, and drew inspiration from the impactful story of Fellow Arnaud Raskin. 

• A brainstorming session to delve into the intricacies of system change and mapping the problem-tree of their own projects. 

• An online meeting to reflect on dynamics of the system they are operating in, gaining valuable insights. 

For the last months, they have been taking part in workshops: 

• A first workshop to focus on their specific roles in their organisation and their fundraising approach. 

• A second one to concentrate on public speaking, storytelling, and ensuring their overall well-being. 

And finally, the closing event took place on 6th of December to celebrate the learnings together!

Congratulations to all the mentees and their mentors for their high energy and commitment throughout this enriching experience, they can all take pride in their achievements.