Digital Pathways – Day 2: Understanding the Why Before the How

After building trust and connection on Day 1, the second day of Digital Pathways invited participants to go deeper.

If Day 1 was about who we are, Day 2 was about why we do what we do.

Youth Work at the Core

The morning began with a collective exploration of non-formal learning and youth work principles. Participants reflected on their own practices, shared experiences from their countries, and discussed what makes youth work distinct, powerful, and transformative.

Together, we unpacked the values behind youth work:

• voluntary participation

• experiential learning

• reflection as a core element

• inclusion and empowerment

• learning through doing

The conversation naturally led to the ETS Competence Model for Youth Workers, offering a structured lens to reflect on the skills, attitudes, and knowledge needed in today’s youth work reality. Participants explored how these competences appear in their everyday practice — and where they would like to grow further during the week.

Young People in Our Realities

But youth work does not exist in a vacuum.

In one of the most powerful sessions of the day, participants presented the realities faced by young people in their local communities across Europe. From NEET situations and digital overload to social exclusion, rural isolation, unemployment, and lack of participation opportunities, the group mapped common challenges — and surprising similarities — despite different national contexts.

This session reminded everyone why innovation in youth work is not a luxury. It is a necessity.

Entering the Digital Pathways

The afternoon introduced the first practical exploration of digital tools for learning.

Participants experimented with interactive platforms, discussed the role of digital facilitation, and reflected on how technology can:

• increase engagement

• create safe participation channels

• support inclusion

• make learning more dynamic

Importantly, the discussion did not focus on tools alone — but on pedagogical intention. Digitalisation in youth work is not about using more technology, but about using it meaningfully.

Reflection as a Daily Ritual

The day closed with group reflection, consolidating learning and personal insights. Participants connected the theory of the morning with the practical digital exploration of the afternoon — already beginning to see how creativity and digital transformation can merge.

Day 2 reminded us of something essential: before choosing methods, we must understand the purpose. Before adopting digital tools, we must clarify our values. And before empowering young people, we must reflect on our own role as youth workers.

The journey continues — and tomorrow, creativity enters the stage.

Disclaimer: Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.