Decolonizing Approaches through Reflexivity and Exchange – Training

How do colonial legacies continue to shape youth work today? How do power, privilege and exclusion influence the spaces where young people participate? What role can youth workers play in creating more inclusive organisations and communities?

The Decolonizing Approaches through Reflexivity and Exchange (DARE) training brings together youth workers from Belgium, Greece, Spain and Italy for a week of learning, reflection and collaboration.

Throughout the programme, participants will explore how colonialism, racism, eurocentrism and systemic inequalities continue to impact youth work practices across Europe. Through workshops, group discussions, artistic methods and shared experiences, they will examine their own realities and develop practical strategies for change.

Reflect, question and reimagine

During the training, participants will engage in workshops on coloniality, power structures, privilege, accountability and social hierarchies. Together, they will explore concepts such as critical whiteness, intersectionality and power mapping through accessible and participatory activities.

The programme combines reflection with action. From expectation mapping and storytelling exercises to creative performances and collaborative discussions, each session encourages participants to connect theory with practice and identify concrete steps for change.

By the end of DARE, participants will have gained new perspectives, practical methodologies and a stronger understanding of how to challenge exclusionary structures. More importantly, they will leave with the confidence and tools to create meaningful change in the communities and organisations where they work.