In November 2023, the Erasmus+ project “Digital Inclusivity Drive: Bridging the Gap for Youth Workers” brought together passionate youth workers from all over Europe in the vibrant city of Benalmádena, Spain. The project focused on helping youth workers develop the tools and knowledge they need to support young people in an increasingly digital world. As more services, learning methods, and even social connections move online, the importance of digital inclusion has become a serious issue. Many young people still do not have access to digital tools or the knowledge to use them properly. This training provided youth workers with practical ways to promote digital equity, especially for those from marginalized and underserved backgrounds. The training was not just about using technology—it was about using it in a way that respects diversity, encourages fairness, and supports young people in being part of the digital world.
In Lithuania, the issue of digital inclusion has become more noticeable in recent years. While most urban areas have access to digital devices and fast internet, many rural regions still face difficulties. Young people living in small towns or low-income families often do not have the same opportunities to learn about digital tools as their peers in bigger cities. Schools in remote areas may not have updated equipment, and some youth centers still lack modern resources. In addition, young people with disabilities or those from migrant communities face added barriers. These include language problems, a lack of adapted platforms, and fewer chances to receive proper support. Youth workers in Lithuania often feel they are not fully prepared to address these issues. The need for inclusive digital education and support has grown stronger, especially after the pandemic showed how important it is to be able to connect, study, and work online.
The training in Benalmádena offered not only useful knowledge but also a strong emotional and personal experience. From the first day, the participants from Tavo Europe felt welcomed and supported by both the trainers and the other participants. The sessions were interactive, with hands-on workshops, roleplays, and group discussions. One of the most eye-opening sessions focused on identifying the small but impactful ways that digital platforms can exclude people. Participants looked at websites, forms, and tools and realized how often they are not designed with all users in mind. For example, forms that are too complex, websites that don’t offer options in other languages, or platforms that are hard to navigate for people with visual impairments. These examples helped everyone see the importance of designing digital tools that are easy and accessible for everyone.
Another powerful part of the training was the exchange of stories and practices between youth workers from different countries. Participants shared the challenges they face in their own communities and the ways they try to overcome them. One group presented their experience of building a local online library with multilingual and audio content for migrant youth. Another talked about digital mentors—young people helping their peers with online tools and tasks. These stories created a deep sense of solidarity and inspired new ideas for participants. At the end of the training, each group developed a small plan for how to continue the work back home. The Lithuanian team focused on creating a friendly and safe space for digital learning in their local area.
Returning to Lithuania, the training’s energy and ideas did not fade. A new project was born—“Digital Together.” This initiative was created by youth workers at Tavo Europe to address the digital divide in small Lithuanian towns. The program targeted three main groups: young people from rural areas, those with limited access to technology, and those with fewer opportunities due to social or economic reasons. The idea was to make digital education accessible, friendly, and based on inclusion. The first step was to open a weekly digital support space in a local youth center. Young people could come with questions, get help with school-related tasks, learn how to use useful apps, and understand online safety. The sessions were kept simple, interactive, and adapted to different learning speeds. The second part of the project focused on creating easy-to-use guides in both Lithuanian and Russian. These guides explained how to use digital tools for job searching, online communication, and learning. The team also invited volunteers to become peer supporters and help others in their communities.
The impact of “Digital Together” was felt almost immediately. Many young people said they finally felt confident using online tools that had always seemed too difficult before. One teenager said she used the guide to write her first CV and apply for a job online. Another started helping his grandparents register for health services through government websites. A small group of participants even began sharing tips and lessons on social media to help others in their towns. Local teachers and librarians noticed the changes too. They reported that the young people involved became more active in class and more open to trying new things online. The project also built stronger relationships between youth workers, volunteers, and families. People started seeing the youth center as a place not only for socializing but also for learning and support.
This project also caught the attention of a nearby municipality. After hearing about the initiative’s success, they invited the youth workers to present their approach and supported them in expanding the sessions to two more towns. The ripple effect was clear. A small idea, inspired by international exchange and shared values, turned into a local movement that helped young people feel more connected and capable. Even though it started as a digital literacy initiative, the project grew into something larger—it became a tool for empowerment, connection, and social change.
Looking ahead, the experience in Benalmádena continues to influence the way youth workers from Tavo Europe see their role. Youth work is not just about organizing events or offering support—it’s about building bridges between people and giving them tools to grow. In today’s world, where digital skills are part of every area of life, being left behind in the digital space means being left behind in life. By working toward inclusion and diversity in digital environments, youth workers help build a future where all young people, no matter their background or situation, can take part in creating, learning, and leading. Projects like “Digital Together” are proof that positive change starts with listening, learning, and taking small but meaningful steps. The hope is that these efforts will continue to grow and inspire others, until every young person in Lithuania—and across Europe—has equal chances to take part in the digital world.