In May 2023, youth workers from all over Europe joined the Erasmus+ training course “Navigating Digital Finance” in Benalmádena, Spain. The project gave youth professionals the chance to improve their knowledge and skills in digital financial literacy. In a world where everything is changing quickly—especially how people earn, save, and use money—this training was both timely and essential. It focused on preparing youth workers to teach young people how to use digital financial tools responsibly and safely. The course included different methods like expert-led sessions, workshops, and practical activities. It created a learning environment where people from different countries could share problems, solutions, and ideas to build a more financially educated generation.
For the participants from the North Macedonian NGO YOUTH ON BOARD, this project came at the perfect time. In May 2023, the social and economic situation in their country was difficult, especially for young people. Many youth in North Macedonia were facing unemployment or unstable work conditions. Digital tools were available, but a large number of young people did not know how to use them properly. Many still used cash and avoided online banking because they did not trust it or did not understand it. Some were victims of online scams or lost money in risky investments. The school system did not teach personal finance, and families often avoided talking about money. There was a visible gap between young people who had access to financial education and those who did not, especially in rural areas and small towns. The digital divide was growing, and financial exclusion was becoming a serious problem for the youth.
The training in Benalmádena was a life-changing experience for the participants from YOUTH ON BOARD. For the first time, they had the opportunity to learn about digital finance in a very practical and international way. They discovered new tools for budgeting, saving, and managing money online. One of the most surprising parts of the training was learning how digital wallets and mobile payments work in different countries. Youth workers from the Netherlands and Germany shared their experience with fully digital banks and how financial education is included in schools. A local Spanish community also presented a project where digital finance was taught through role-playing games and interactive apps. These examples gave the Macedonian team fresh ideas and a stronger motivation to start something similar in their own communities. The training helped them see how financial literacy is not only about numbers, but also about self-confidence, independence, and equality.
After returning to North Macedonia, the team from YOUTH ON BOARD started working on a new project called “Smart Wallet for Smart Youth.” This was a local initiative to bring digital financial education to high school students and young adults aged 16 to 25. The project used simple language and real-life examples to explain important financial concepts. It included interactive workshops, mobile app demonstrations, and group discussions. The idea was to teach young people how to manage their money, avoid scams, and use digital banking tools. The workshops also gave space to talk about emotions around money, social media pressure, and the risks of fast online loans. The project was directly inspired by the Erasmus+ training in Spain, especially the sessions on budgeting apps, digital safety, and promoting financial inclusion.
The impact of “Smart Wallet for Smart Youth” was strong and positive. Over 200 young people participated in the first round of workshops in three cities. Many of them said it was their first time learning about personal finance in such a clear and practical way. Some students opened their first bank accounts after the session. Others downloaded budgeting apps and started tracking their expenses. Youth from rural areas were especially grateful because they had less access to this kind of information. The project also helped parents and teachers become more aware of the importance of financial education. One local school included digital finance in their extra-curricular program. The local government took interest as well and invited the NGO to present the project at a youth forum. This opened new opportunities for cooperation between civil society and public institutions.
The journey of the participants from North Macedonia showed how international experiences can inspire real change at the local level. The Erasmus+ training in Benalmádena did not only provide knowledge—it gave youth workers the courage and tools to take action. The connection between digital finance and youth empowerment became very clear. When young people understand how to manage their money, they also feel more confident to plan their future. They feel less afraid of failure and more ready to take responsibility. Financial literacy gives them power, not just over their wallet, but over their life.
Looking into the future, the team from YOUTH ON BOARD believes that the role of youth workers will become even more important. Young people today live in a digital world, but they are not always protected or prepared. Projects like “Navigating Digital Finance” help youth workers become better guides for this journey. Change is not easy, and it does not happen fast. But with patience, partnerships, and strong values, it is possible to make a difference. The youth of North Macedonia are full of ideas, energy, and dreams. They only need the right tools and support to turn these dreams into reality. And with more education, cooperation, and trust, they can become the leaders of a smarter and more inclusive future.