A few weeks ago, Martina took part in the Young Friends of the Earth Europe (YFoEE) Gathering at the European Youth Centre in Budapest, Hungary. This event marked a turning point for the YFoEE network, which has been relatively inactive in recent years. Over four days, Young Friends of the Earth Members from across Europe came together to exchange ideas, strengthen their skills, and set the course for a renewed youth movement within Friends of the Earth, one that drives climate and environmental justice.
The gathering served as a space to relaunch YFoEE as a vibrant, dynamic network. Participants worked collectively to:
- Build a shared vision for YFoEE’s future
- Relaunch several themed working groups
- Plan campaigns around climate and social justice
- Subsequently elect a new YFoEE Steering Committee to guide the network forward
The programme combined policy learning, activism, and creativity. Workshops explored intersectionality, climate and racial justice, and how grassroots action links to policy advocacy at local and international levels. Participants also engaged in artivism sessions, imagining utopian newspaper headlines and painting banners to visualise the just, sustainable future they are fighting for. Informal activities, including an intercultural night and disco evening, strengthened bonds across the network and celebrated its diversity.
A highlight was the study visit to local initiatives, including an energy community project, and a New Bauhaus renovation that is transforming a school into social housing and a cultural community space. These visits showcased how local solutions can create meaningful change.
Martina presented Friends of the Earth Malta’s recent youth-led initiatives, including youth-aimed training workshops and the development of the Young Friends of the Earth Malta network. The exchange of experiences offered inspiration, insights, and practical ideas to further empower youth participation back home.
The newly formed working groups and elected Steering Committee will now lead YFoEE into its next phase, ensuring young voices remain central in shaping actions and campaigns across Europe.
GET INVOLVED!
Are you passionate about the environment, climate justice, and making a difference? Or are you interested in having similar experiences abroad or strengthening your future job prospects? Join Young Friends of the Earth Malta (YFoEM) via this link to connect with other young people, learn new skills, and take action for a fairer, greener future.