In May 2025, a youth worker from Bulgaria representing the NGO International Connection joined the Erasmus+ project “Code for Change: Empowering Young Changemakers through Programming” in Benalmádena, Spain. The project brought together participants from across Europe to explore how coding skills can become powerful tools for solving social and environmental challenges. Its mission was clear: to show that technology is not just for experts in the field, but can be accessible to anyone who wants to use it to make a positive difference in their community. The training went far beyond learning technical skills—it encouraged participants to think about ethical design, inclusion, and sustainability in every digital solution they created.
In Bulgaria, there is a growing recognition of the importance of digital skills, yet access to meaningful technology education remains uneven. Large cities offer more opportunities for young people to join coding courses or participate in tech clubs, but rural areas often lack resources, teachers, and equipment. Many young people are comfortable using smartphones and social media, but few have the chance to learn the skills needed to create digital tools themselves. For marginalized groups, such as those in economically disadvantaged areas or minority communities, this gap is even wider. Before the project, technology in many parts of the country was seen primarily as entertainment or a professional skill for a select few, rather than as a way to solve local problems or empower youth voices.
The training in Benalmádena challenged this view and opened new possibilities. Participants received hands-on experience in programming languages such as Python and HTML/CSS, learning how to build simple but functional prototypes. However, the most powerful part of the training was the emphasis on using technology for social good. Each coding exercise was linked to a real-world issue, whether it was environmental sustainability, mental health, or accessibility for people with disabilities. Trainers encouraged participants to think critically about who their digital solutions were helping and how to ensure they were inclusive and respectful of human rights.
The learning experience extended far beyond the classroom. The international group shared stories about their local communities, exchanged examples of best practices, and inspired each other with innovative approaches. A youth worker from a Mediterranean country described how coding workshops in public libraries had become hubs for intercultural exchange. Another participant from a rural region in Eastern Europe explained how mobile-friendly coding courses allowed them to reach young people without access to computers. These conversations highlighted that while the challenges varied, the passion for using technology to improve lives was the same everywhere.
Returning to Bulgaria, the representative from International Connection was determined to put these lessons into action. They launched a local initiative called “Code for Inclusion,” aimed at bringing coding education to young people in under-resourced communities. The program combined basic programming skills with a focus on social innovation, encouraging participants to identify problems in their own neighborhoods and develop digital solutions. One group created an online platform to connect local farmers with consumers, helping to reduce food waste and support small businesses. Another team designed an app to provide easy access to mental health resources for teenagers.
The initiative quickly gained attention, and partnerships were formed with local schools, community centers, and NGOs. Teachers noticed that students involved in the program became more motivated and confident, not only in technology-related subjects but in their overall learning. The collaborative nature of the projects encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership among the participants. By the end of the first program cycle, several projects were presented at a local youth innovation fair, where they received positive feedback from community members and local authorities.
The impact went beyond individual skills. The program helped change perceptions about technology in the community. It showed that coding is not an exclusive skill reserved for tech companies, but a language anyone can learn and use to address real needs. It also strengthened community connections, as young people worked alongside mentors, educators, and local leaders to bring their ideas to life. Importantly, it gave marginalized youth a platform to voice their perspectives and take an active role in shaping their environment.
The experience of “Code for Change” proved that when young people are given the right tools, they can be both creative and socially responsible in their use of technology. It also demonstrated that international projects can inspire long-term local initiatives that continue to grow and adapt to the needs of the community.
Looking ahead, the vision for International Connection is to expand “Code for Inclusion” to more regions in Bulgaria, develop a network of youth tech mentors, and create opportunities for cross-border collaboration. Technology is evolving quickly, but with the right guidance, it can remain a force for equity and empowerment. The training in Benalmádena was more than just an educational experience—it was the beginning of a movement to make coding a tool for change, ensuring that the digital future belongs to everyone, not just a privileged few.