UfM Med Youth Lab 2024: Young changemakers shape the future of the Euro-Mediterranean region
25-29 November 2024, Fes, Morocco. From November 25–29, 2024, the city of Fes, Morocco, became a hub of creativity and collaboration as 61 young leaders from 21 UfM Member States gathered for the UfM Med Youth Lab 2024.
The initiative was organized by the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), with the support of the German Development Cooperation, in collaboration with the Euro-Mediterranean University of Fes (UEMF) and in partnership with Anna Lindh Foundation (ALF) and the European Institute of the Mediterranean (IEMed).
Hosted at the modern UEMF Campus, this five-day initiative empowered participants aged 18–30 to create innovative solutions addressing some of the region’s most pressing challenges.
The event focused on three key themes: Green Skills, Youth Mobility for Professional and Educational Exchange, and Youth Engagement in Multistakeholder Dialogue. Participants took part in hands-on project development training sessions, expert-led workshops, and thematic discussions led by inspiring speakers, including ALDA, Schneider Electric, and TASC. Beyond classroom learning, attendees explored UEMF’s cutting-edge innovation spaces, including the EuroMed Innovation Center, the 3D Printing Center, and the Smart Factory.
Collaboration and Innovation in Action
Participants were grouped into 12 diverse teams, fostering a dynamic exchange of perspectives and ideas with the final aim to develop concrete project proposals, turning concepts into actionable plans. The program emphasized not just technical skills but also essential soft skills like public speaking and teamwork—key tools for transforming ideas into impact.
Final Pitch Event: A Celebration of Ideas
The program culminated with the UfM Med Youth Lab Final Pitch Event attended by over 110 people, including representatives from the UfM Co-Presidency – European Commission and Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan – youth networks, academia, and the private sector. Each team presented their project to a multidisciplinary jury, receiving feedback and recognition for their creativity and dedication. Projects ranged from circular economy innovations to inclusive exchange programs and tools for participatory policymaking.
Driving Regional Change
The event also showcased the launch of the UfM Youth Engagement Series Outcome Document: Increasing Youth Involvement in Multistakeholder Dialogue, a forward-looking guide for embedding youth voices in policymaking and creating sustainable participation models.
By the end of the week, the UfM Med Youth Lab 2024 had equipped young changemakers with skills and connections and highlighted the power of youth-driven solutions in shaping a better, more inclusive Euro-Mediterranean future.
A second edition of the UfM Med Youth Lab is planned for October 2025.
Check out the UfM4Youth page for more updates as we continue to amplify the voices of young innovators across the region!
