From 3–7 October 2025, I had the chance to join the European Youth Forum Seminar in sunny Mollina, Spain. The seminar brought together young people from all over Europe for five intense days of learning, reflection, and connection.
Engagement, Inclusion & “Brave Spaces”
A big part of our conversations was about inclusion, privilege awareness, and how to create what we called “brave spaces.” Not just places where everyone feels safe, but where we can also be honest, share uncomfortable truths, and grow from them. One thing that really stuck with me was the idea that it’s okay to feel uncomfortable as long as that discomfort leads to learning, not harm. Sometimes the most meaningful growth starts exactly there.
Motivation, Commitment & Avoiding Burnout
We also talked a lot about motivation and commitment: what gets us involved in youth work, and what keeps us going when it gets tough. It hit me that while motivation gives us the first push, it’s commitment, the quiet, steady kind, that carries us through hard days. For me, that means taking care of myself, setting boundaries, and leaning on the support of others when things get intense.
Burnout came up often too. Many of us feel pressure from within, from our organisations, or from bigger systems we can’t control. Recognising that early, and taking breaks without guilt, felt like a lesson I needed to hear.
A Privilege Exercise – Humbling and Eye-Opening
One of the moments I’ll never forget was a privilege exercise. We stood in a line and took steps forward or backward depending on our experiences. When I realised I was standing right at the front, it hit me how many opportunities I’ve had — and how different that line could look for others. It was humbling, uncomfortable, and incredibly eye-opening all at once.
Key Takeaways
Here’s what I’m taking home from Mollina:
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Inclusion isn’t always about speaking up — sometimes it’s about listening.
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Collaboration doesn’t mean finding one perfect solution, but understanding our different realities.
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Awareness of privilege and psychological safety are the starting points for real participation.
Personal Reflections
The days in Mollina were full, sometimes overwhelming, but always inspiring. Between new faces, deep talks, and late-night reflections, I learned a lot about myself too. Where does my energy come from? What keeps me engaged? What makes me pause?
When I left, I felt more grounded and aware, not just about youth work, but about what inclusion and community really mean in practice. It reminded me that engagement isn’t only about doing things; it’s about being present, mindful, and kind — with ourselves and with others.