Training course - Queer Youth and Allies: Building inclusive Youth Work

We believe that the most impactful learning happens when we collaborate, share experiences, and build knowledge together. Help strengthen LGBTQI+ allyship with the youth sector - how can we collectively build a more informed, supportive, and inclusive network for Queer Youth? 

This training is designed for youth workers, educators, trainers, youth project coordinators who:

• Already have experience in youth work on local or national level;
• Already work with queer youth and want to improve their professional practice through reflection and sharing experiences 
• OR Don’t have much experience with this target group and wish to improve their capacity to ensure inclusive approach and welcoming spaces for queer youth in their everyday practice.
• Are motivated to integrate working with Queer Youth in their professional practices.
• Are open to learn from experience, reflect on their youth work practice and challenge stereotypes and pre-conceved notions about queer identities in the context of youth work.
• Are motivated to apply the newly gained competences in creating and/or improving youth work programs on local, national and international level.

Aims and Objectives

This training activity aims to empower youth workers and local actors to become strong allies for queer youth by:

• Consolidating their role as allies through direct support and connection to relevant resources
• Deepening understanding of queer lived experiences, culture and history
• Deconstructing professional and systemic biases related to gender and sexual identities
• Understanding the challenges faced by Queer Youth in various contexts
• Critically reflecting on current practices in youth work
• Planning inclusive, supportive and context-sensitive actions at the local level

Pedagogical Approach

The programme is based on principles of non-formal education and includes:

• Experiential learning 
• Critical and reflective exploration 
• Collaborative learning and co-construction

Special attention is given to the emotional dimension of learning, care, and group safety.

The activity will take place in a sharing, safe and respectful space, based on the core values of youth work like mutual respect and the common good.