In May 2024, a group of youth workers gathered in Benalmádena, Spain, to take part in the Erasmus+ training “Empowering Voices: Digital Inclusion and EU Values in Youth Engagement.” This program was designed to respond to the growing digital divide in youth communities by equipping youth workers with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to build inclusive and respectful digital environments. In a world shaped by technology, the training placed a strong focus on EU values such as inclusiveness, respect, and solidarity. Participants were encouraged to reflect on how to use digital tools not only to engage young people but also to empower them to feel safe, seen, and supported online.
In Bulgaria, the digital world can be a place of both opportunity and difficulty. While internet access has improved in recent years, many young people—especially those from rural or marginalized communities—still face challenges. A lack of digital literacy means that some youths are not confident navigating online spaces or using digital tools for learning, creativity, or job searching. Furthermore, online bullying, misinformation, and exclusion are still common problems. Many youth centers do not have enough resources to teach responsible online behavior or support young people in building positive digital identities. Before the training in Spain, the team from the Bulgarian NGO Mladezhda was already thinking about how to address these problems. However, they lacked concrete ideas, structured tools, and proven methods to create inclusive and values-based digital projects.
The experience in Benalmádena offered exactly what was missing. Through practical sessions, open discussions, and hands-on teamwork, the training helped participants understand the deep connection between digital skills and European values. One of the most eye-opening moments came during a workshop about digital ethics and online safety. The facilitator showed real-life examples of how youth workers from other countries created online platforms where young people felt welcome to express themselves without fear of judgment or hate. The stories were powerful, showing that digital inclusion is not just about access to technology but about creating a feeling of belonging.
Another important part of the training focused on social media. Many participants already used social platforms in their work, but they had not considered how to use them in more meaningful and inclusive ways. A session on storytelling through social media gave participants creative ideas for helping young people share their personal experiences, hopes, and ideas. The youth worker from Bulgaria found this especially useful, as many young people in their community often felt like no one listened to them or that their voice did not matter. The idea of using digital platforms as safe spaces for expression felt simple but powerful.
After returning home, the youth worker from Mladezhda began developing a new initiative called “Digital Voices Bulgaria.” The idea was to create a series of workshops in youth centers, especially in underrepresented areas, that combined digital literacy, EU values, and creativity. The workshops focused on building basic digital skills, like safe browsing, privacy protection, and respectful online communication, while also helping young people learn how to express themselves through short videos, blogs, and social media content. Young participants were invited to create personal stories that reflected their lives, challenges, and dreams—and share them online using the hashtag #DigitalVoicesBG.
One of the biggest successes of the project was a local event called “Youth Online Day,” which gathered participants, educators, and parents to discuss digital rights, the importance of inclusive communication, and the role of youth in shaping respectful online communities. The event featured a small digital exhibition with creative work by the youth, including videos, drawings, and interactive stories. One story, created by a 15-year-old participant, told of how she overcame cyberbullying with the support of a local youth worker. Her story touched many visitors and was later used in awareness campaigns in other parts of Bulgaria.
The impact of the “Digital Voices Bulgaria” project began to grow. Local schools invited Mladezhda to present their workshops, and other NGOs expressed interest in using the same methods. Young people said they felt more confident online, not only in terms of using technology but in understanding their rights and responsibilities. Parents reported feeling more connected to the digital lives of their children. One school principal even proposed adding a module on digital inclusion to their after-school activities.
Thanks to the tools and perspectives gained during the Erasmus+ training in Benalmádena, Mladezhda was able to develop a new approach to youth work that combines technology with heart. They understood that teaching young people about the internet is not only about avoiding danger or using devices—it is about building a sense of identity, belonging, and mutual respect. By placing EU values at the center of their digital programs, they created a strong foundation for dialogue, trust, and participation.
The long-term vision is now clear. Mladezhda wants to continue expanding its work on digital inclusion by partnering with organizations across Europe. Their goal is to co-create a network of youth workers who exchange practices, materials, and ideas for making the digital world a better place for all. Plans are already being made to apply for a follow-up Erasmus+ project that focuses on digital democracy and youth participation in local decisions.
This journey has shown how a single training can start a chain of change. The youth worker from Bulgaria returned home not just with new knowledge, but with renewed motivation. The experience in Spain reminded them that youth work is about creating spaces—online or offline—where every voice matters. With the right support, tools, and shared values, young people can grow into confident citizens who shape the future with courage, respect, and creativity.