Erasmus+ Initiative ‘We Are the Decision Makers: Much More than Just Voices’ Recognized with Honorable Mention at the Erasmus+ Good Practices Awards Ceremony
The Erasmus+ initiative “We are the Decision-makers! We are not just voices” has played an essential role in promoting International Education and empowering young people. Coordinated by the Almada City Council in collaboration with several institutions, the project recently received an Honorable Mention during the Erasmus+ Good Practice Awards ceremony. This recognition highlights the importance of civic participation and training young people in decision-making processes, reflecting the ongoing commitment to providing experiences that enrich student mobility and personal development.
The core purpose of this project is the inclusion and representation of young people from different social backgrounds. The honorable mention awarded in the Youth Participation and Democratic Life Activities category highlighted the significant efforts to ensure that the voice of young people is heard and taken into account in decisions that influence their lives and the future of society. The program goes beyond being a simple learning opportunity, transforming participants into agents of change in their communities.
Erasmus+ Initiative Objectives and Goals
The “We are the Decision Makers” project aims to increase youth participation in various spheres, encouraging critical reflection on the importance of civic engagement. At its core, the initiative seeks not only to educate, but also to mobilize young people to become protagonists of their own stories.
Social Inclusion as a Fundamental Pillar
One of the pillars of the project is social inclusion. Through activities that involve young people from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, the initiative aims to promote equal opportunities, allowing all participants to feel valued and heard. The path to social inclusion in projects of this nature inspires efforts to eliminate barriers that may impede access to education and personal development.
These activities are designed to serve a wide range of young people, allowing their voices to be actively recognized. The project aims to create a safe space where everyone can express their opinions, reflect on their experiences and discuss the impact of various social issues. In doing so, the initiative promotes a collaborative learning environment where respect and empathy are fundamental.
Civic Engagement and Youth Development
Personal development is a key component of the project. By fostering civic engagement, young people are encouraged to take active roles in their communities. Building skills such as leadership, communication and teamwork is essential for them to become leaders in their fields. Practical activities allow participants to experience the democratic process, from the drafting of proposals to their presentation. This practical experience is essential to help young people understand the importance of their participation in decisions that affect both their lives and society as a whole. Projects of this kind are crucial for strengthening democracy and active citizenship among the new generations.
Recognition and Importance of Erasmus+ Good Practice Awards
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This recognition is an encouragement not only for the project organisers, but also for other young people and institutions looking for ways to become more actively involved in society. The visibility that these initiatives receive helps to highlight the importance of international education programmes, which offer not only academic training, but truly transformative experiences.
What are the Good Practice Awards?
The Good Practice Awards are an initiative that values good practices in line with the priorities of the Erasmus+ programme. These practices include strategies for inclusion and diversity, digital transformation, sustainability and climate action, and democratic participation. By recognising projects that stand out in these areas, the awards serve to inspire others to adopt similar approaches and strengthen their initiatives.
Community Impact
By valuing youth participation, the We Are the Decision Makers project has the potential to make a lasting impact on the community. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences and learnings, contributing to an ongoing cycle of participation and engagement. This impact extends beyond the project cycle, as young people become messengers of their experiences and inspirations to those who have not yet participated.
Participant Experiences and Personal Transformation
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Personal Development through Cultural Interaction
Interacting with young people from different countries and cultures not only enriches knowledge about other realities, but also helps in the development of social and personal skills. Learning to deal with different opinions, culturally diverse and emotional, is one of the many positive results. It is not uncommon for young people who participate in these projects to report a renewed passion for education and lifelong learning, which greatly contributes to their future trajectories.
Lasting Impact on Career and Personal Life
The skills and experiences acquired throughout the program are reflected not only in academic areas, but also in professional careers. Participants frequently mention that leadership and communication skills, as well as their broad network of contacts, enhance their employment and career opportunities. Thus, international education through Erasmus+ offers a clear path to personal and professional development that goes far beyond what could be achieved in traditional settings.
The Importance of Student Mobility and European Projects
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The student mobility provided by Erasmus+ is a fundamental aspect not only for personal development, but also for building a more united and integrated Europe. Intercultural contact and studying in diverse contexts foster empathy and solidarity among young people. These European projects have the power to generate lasting bonds and mutual understanding that goes beyond borders.
The Role of International Education in Active Citizenship
Through international education, young people learn the importance of being active and responsible citizens. Considering the different social and political realities they encounter, they become more empathetic and aware, essential characteristics for building more just and equitable societies. The education they receive is not just academic; it is an education that shapes values and leads to civic action.
Developing Real-Life Skills
Erasmus+ programmes offer a diverse range of skills that are highly valued in today’s job market. Skills such as adaptability, problem-solving and team collaboration are intrinsically developed throughout intercultural experiences. These skills are essential for the development of qualified professionals who are prepared for an increasingly globalized future.
With all this, the Erasmus+ initiative “We Are the Decision Makers” stands out as an example of how education and mobility can be powerful allies in the development of youth. The recognition through an Honorable Mention is a testament to the dedication and positive impact on the lives of many young people, opening doors to a more inclusive and participatory future.

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