YOUTH WORKERS EXPLORE CREATIVITY, COMMUNITY AND PUBLIC SPACE
From 12 to 14th of November Youth workers from all across Europe recently came together hosted by Comune di Reggio Emilia for a 3-day local training dedicated to exploring street art as a tool for social inclusion with young people. Blending hands-on activities with spray cans, dialogue with artists, working groups, and visits to local initiatives and street art intervention, the participants had the opportunity to discover how creativity can support meaningful engagement with young people.
From the very beginning, participants were invited to step directly into street art. Using spray cans and panels, they experimented with colours and basic graffiti techniques to get to know each other and break the ice.
Feedback on the STAR 2.0 Online course: Strengthening Tools and Approaches
A dedicated moment of the programme focused on feedback and reflection, giving participants the space to discuss the online training materials, share challenges from their local realities, and propose improvements. Many highlighted the value of practical examples and the need for adaptable activities that fit diverse cultural and social contexts. Others emphasised the importance of guidance when navigating bureaucracy and logistical aspects. This feedback not only strengthened the ongoing development of the modules but also helped participants recognise shared needs and opportunities across countries. The session reinforced a key aspect of youth work: that tools must be flexible, inclusive, and co-created with those who use them.
Learning From Artists and Local Creative Spaces in Reggio Emilia
One of the most inspiring moments was a conversation with Andrea Scazza, Chemis and Psiko Planet who despite coming from different backgrounds shared their experiences engaging communities and youth through street art workshops and interventions. Their perspectives shed a light on how artistic expression can activate public spaces, build trust, and invite young people to take ownership of their environment. Their on field experiences was also extremely useful to gather inputs on the organisation of the upcoming pilot activities, stressing the importance of listening to local communities and youth, adapting to the environment, and co-designing projects rather than imposing them.
The training also included a on-field examples through visits to several creative and educational landmarks. At Ex Officine Reggiane participants saw how abandoned industrial spaces can be transformed through cultural engagement. Re Mida showcased how recycled materials can spark creativity and environmental awareness, while Casa Gioia demonstrated the role of art in supporting inclusion. Lastly, the mural painted in Casa Manfredi, an historical landmark for Reggio Emilia’s resistance against fascism, was also a great example on how street art can bring back memories and make sure that these stories are not forgotten but passed on to younger generations!
From Inspiration to Action
Shared experiences, including a visit to a Parmigiano Reggiano production site, added cultural depth and strengthened connections among participants.The training closed with a forward-looking reflection, where youth workers began shaping their own pilot workshops with young people. They discussed goals, methodologies, and the importance of fostering safe, inclusive spaces where creativity can thrive. Many left with energy, motivation and concrete ideas for using street art to amplify youth voices and make sure no one is left behind!