“Stories We Tell: Represent Without Erasing”

Overview
In a time where advocacy campaigns aim to “give a voice to the voiceless”, Stories We Tell takes a step back. This 6-day Erasmus+ training course gathers youth workers, activists, and educators across Europe to critically reflect on representation and storytelling in youth work.
The project focuses on how narratives, images, and communication practices can unintentionally reproduce stereotypes about marginalized communities (ethnic minorities, LGBTQIA+, migrants, people with disabilities, economically disadvantaged youth). Using participatory and creative methods, participants will co-create ethical and inclusive approaches to representation.

Objectives
Build critical capacity to deconstruct dominant narratives about minorities.

Equip youth professionals to create ethical, inclusive, non-oppressive communication.

Explore alternative storytelling methodologies (anthropology, arts, decolonial practices).

Create a collective space of reflection and co-learning among European youth workers.

Stimulate lasting networks for social justice and diversity in youth work.

Activities
The training combines theory, analysis, and creative experimentation through:
Critical workshops: case study analysis of campaigns, media, and representation.

Thematic explorations: gender, race, class, body, “aesthetic diversity”.

Participatory methodologies: Photovoice, narrative mapping, dialogic interviews, forum theatre, visual auto-ethnography.

Creative labs: small-group co-creation of ethical micro-campaigns.

Reflective spaces: talking circles, journaling, collective debriefing.

Expected Impact
For participants:
Stronger critical awareness of representation in youth work.

Concrete tools to involve young people in shaping their own narratives.

Skills to develop inclusive, collaborative, and respectful storytelling practices.

For partner organizations:
A co-created toolkit on ethical representation.

New methodologies to train staff on inclusive practices.

Strengthened long-term European cooperation around social justice and youth advocacy.

Outputs:
A network of committed organizations with a 12-month collaboration plan.

A freely available digital guide: Stories We Tell – Ethical Representation in Youth Work.