Empathy Journalists - nonviolent communication training

Empathy Journalists is an 8-day international Erasmus+ training course in Latvia designed for youth workers, educators, facilitators, and professionals working in the field of non-formal education and youth work.

The training aims to support those who work with young people in navigating difficult conversations. We will explore how to talk about sensitive topics that are important in young people’s lives, such as mental health and wellbeing, identity and belonging, discrimination and social inequality, climate change, migration, and different social and political views. These topics often bring strong emotions and disagreements, and through nonviolent communication (NVC) you will learn how to create safe spaces for respectful dialogue, empathy, and understanding.

Many young people today feel disengaged from civic life or become stuck in polarised “right vs wrong” thinking. Youth workers are often on the front line of these discussions but lack practical tools to transform different opinions into meaningful dialogue.

This training introduces the Empathy Journalist approach, based on nonviolent communication (NVC), which focuses on understanding the feelings and needs behind strong opinions and supporting connection even in moments of disagreement.

Throughout the training, participants will develop practical competences in:

• using the 4 steps of NVC in youth work contexts
• recognising and working with emotions and unmet needs behind conflict
• facilitating empathy circles and safe dialogue spaces
• supporting young people in expressing themselves clearly and respectfully
• transforming “us vs them” thinking into human understanding

The programme is built on non-formal learning methods, combining experiential workshops, role plays based on real youth work situations, group discussions, creative activities, journaling, peer learning, and reflection. Participants will actively practice the tools rather than only learn theory, ensuring strong transfer into everyday youth work practice.

The training is for people who:

• work with young people in NGOs, youth centres, schools, or community projects
• are involved in non-formal education and youth participation activities
• are interested in empathy-based communication and dialogue
• want to strengthen their skills in conflict transformation and civic education

The training will take place in Latvia and is fully funded by the Erasmus+ Programme (travel, accommodation, food, and programme costs covered within reimbursement limits).

Info pack:
https://www.canva.com/design/DAG-3NkpJO4/0Q8tAUxZRAf2HXogrQTwZw/edit?utm_content=DAG-3NkpJO4&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebutton

 Application form:
https://forms.gle/DT1jpLgWC1VD1vQe6