Ghent 2024: where young people shape the city
The time has come! Ghent is entering the final stretch of its year as European Youth Capital 2024 and it’s more than ready for an exciting autumn. With just a few months left, the Youth Capital’s spotlight is on the creativity, energy, and impact of Ghent’s young people. From sharing powerful stories to celebrating urban culture and tackling global issues, the closing months promise to be just as vibrant and inspiring as the rest of the year. Check out what’s coming up this fall below 👇
a platform all about young people’s voices & creativity
On September 20, Ghent will launch the “We Are The City” platform. This project is all about giving Ghent’s youth an online stage to share their stories with the world. Through videos, podcasts, photos, and articles, young people will be able to express their experiences—whether they’re joyful, tough, or life-changing. Despite the support from a dedicated youth media team, young people are encouraged to take an active role in crafting their final stories, gaining hands-on experience in media production and taking control of their own narratives. A short version of the platform has already been launched, featuring a selection of stories.
celebrating urban culture
From September 20 to 22, Ghent will transform into a hub of urban culture. The ASFALT festival is a celebration of street culture, offering a platform for urban talents such as freerunners, street artists, BMX riders, skaters, and rappers to showcase their skills. The festival will feature competitions, performances, demonstrations, and workshops spread across five locations in the city, attracting both local and international talents. ASFALT isn’t just for athletes and performers—it’s a festival for anyone who loves urban culture. The festival will also include an urban market with exhibitions, live radio, graffiti art, tattoos, yoga sessions, slam poetry, and more. Whether you're an active participant or a spectator, ASFALT is undoubtedly set to be a highlight of Ghent’s European Youth Capital celebrations, bringing together diverse communities.
engaging in global conversations
Ghent’s year as European Youth Capital is also about engaging in important conversations. In partnership with the European Space Agency and BELSPO (Belgian Federal Science Agency), Ghent will host a series of Space Talks, focusing on climate change and how it can be observed from space. These discussions will explore topics such as urban green spaces, water management, and the broader impacts of climate change. The talks, scheduled for September 24, October 8, and November 6 offer a unique opportunity for young people to engage with experts and think critically about the future of our planet.
supporting young people’s initiatives
Empowering young people to turn their ideas into reality is another key focus of Ghent’s European Youth Capital programme. On October 8, the Check-Your-Idea event will provide a platform for young innovators to pitch their projects. This event, organised by Youth Service Ghent, will bring together young people, organisations, and partners who can provide the resources and support needed to bring young people’s ideas to life. Whether you have a concept that needs funding, a vision that needs refining, or just want to make a difference, Check-Your-Idea is the place to start!
From sharing your story, exploring urban culture, or making a difference, Ghent’s got something for you. And there’s even more to come! Innovative architecture will be in the spotlight on October 6 and on October 25-26 if you’re Flemish and interested in international opportunities you shouldn’t miss the Go Strange event. Stay tuned for more updates and join us in celebrating the vibrant youth culture and young people in Ghent!
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