European Youth Work in the light of (Post-)Colonial Narratives

Aims & objectives

Colonialism is part of European, particularly Western European, history and presence. The societal narrative tells single-sided stories of the colonial “heritage”. In this respect, colonialism is often portrayed as a historical occasion that brought progress to the colonised areas, for example through trading, and therefore colonial rulers are honoured in street names and monuments.
In European youth work and education, the topic of colonialism – and its consequences today – is left almost entirely blank, even in the specific sector “global learning” that is dedicated, among others, to the understanding of global power relations.
This project aims at filling this gap by providing space for "other stories", critically reflecting the impact of colonialism on both the European/colonising and the colonised states and populations in general and youth work in particular. We want to develop concepts to break the very complex topic of colonial continuities down to non-formal youth education approaches. The training course will train youth workers, educators, trainers and youth leaders to become multipliers for the topic of (post)colonial narratives in their specific context of youth work and youth education. With the help of non-formal learning methods, peer-to-peer learning and learner-centred approaches the training supports the participants in their own reflection and learning process. In cooperation with local initiatives and activists the topic of (post)colonialism will be connected to the history of the city of Bremen.

Target group & international/intercultural composition of the group & team

Trainers, youth workers, educators and activists.
All participants came from the partner organisations from France, the Netherlands, Spain and Germany.
The team consisted of trainers from the partner organisation from the Netherlands, France and Germany. I was part of the team of trainers and part of the organisational team.

Training methods used & main activities

Non-formal learning & experiential learning methods like group discussions, self-directed learning, reflection tools, mini-workshops, but also guided tours in the city centre and a museum with a specific focus.

Outcomes of the activity

The main outcome was the forming of a network which continues cooperating and the start of a KA 2 project.
Also participants gained higher awareness for colonial continuity and inspiration for their work with young people.

Your tasks and responsibilities within the team

organiser & trainer

I worked on this training for 5 days as a full time trainer.