The vision of the European Youth Forum is to be the voice of young people in Europe, where young people are equal citizens and are encouraged and supported to achieve their fullest potential as global citizens. Lublin is the first Polish city to be granted the European Youth Capital title. The international jury decided that Lublin created the most interesting programme of activities in Europe with its unique energy and inspiring ideas of young people. The number of planned events and the value of allocated funds manifest the scale of the project. “Hi!” – a new youth space has officially started its activity today.
The European Youth Forum has awarded us this honorable title by recognising the action programme based on European values:
- inclusion in co-deciding about the city,
- equality,
- availability,
- equal rights policy.
This token is both a great honour and an exceptionally significant commitment for us. Lublin strives to be an open and friendly city, identifying the needs and aspirations of young people. A place where, regardless of their origin, ideology, sexual orientation or gender identity young people have their own space, feel like they are at home, are heard and valued.
The youth space “Hey!” was created together for youth from Lublin and at the same time, they took part in the process of creating their new development centre. In general, they can decide what activities, meetings, workshops and more will use “Hey!” as the youth friendly venue for everybody. Also, as a part of the new space, the restaurant will be open from Monday to Friday from 10.00 to 20.00. Additionally, comfortable poufs and armchairs, tables for meetings and individual work, board games are at disposal. There is also a possibility of free use of a kitchenette, projector or video game console.
Youth organizations are spaces where young people’s opinions matter. By organizing, connecting with others and building communities, young people are empowering themselves to shape the world around them.
The European Youth Forum understands and supports the amazing work of youth organizations. They foster more inclusive societies and outreach to young people from all backgrounds. The value of youth organizations must be recognized! We call for governments to invest in them and allow them to thrive.
“We are preparing intensively for the year 2023 when Lublin will be the European Capital of Youth. Today we offer a new place to young people living in Lublin. “Hey!” is a necessary initiative that meets the needs of young people, as an alternative to meetings outdoors or in commercial premises. I am sure that the youth space at Peowiaków 11 street will be one of the favorite places of young people, full of many activities and youth meetings”, Beata Stepaniuk-Kuśmierzak, Deputy Mayor of Lublin for Culture, Sport and Participation, Plenipotentiary of the Mayor of Lublin for the European Capital of Youth says.