What does a space look like when young people design it for the community? Between August and October 2025, this question was addressed through two interventions conducted within the Youth Placemaking Balkans (YPB) project, implemented by AJSPT.

The project aims to increase youth participation in placemaking processes and to develop their civic and entrepreneurial skills, providing them the opportunity to identify real needs and transform ideas into concrete actions.

From Idea to Intervention

The process began with workshops and community consultation meetings, where young people aged 16 to 29 discussed with residents how public spaces could be improved. Co-design sessions were organized, in which each idea was analyzed, refined, and integrated into an action plan.

“For me, it was the first time I felt that my opinion really mattered to the community. I didn’t just talk about change; I was part of it,” said Andrei, one of the participants.

Each intervention included a clear planning stage, with roles and responsibilities assumed by the youth, followed by the actual implementation, carried out with the support of the local organization.

A Wall That Tells a Story

The first intervention focused on refurbishing a deteriorated wall. After cleaning and preparation, 32 young participants transformed it with color and creativity into a visual element that brings energy and identity to the area.

“I used to pass by that wall every day and it looked sad. Now I stop and look at it with pride, knowing that I contributed to the change,” shares Maria, a project participant.

For residents, the transformation was immediately noticeable:

“You can tell it was done with heart. The area feels more cared for and welcoming,” said a community member who participated in the initial consultations.

Movement for All: An Outdoor Calisthenics Space for the Community

The second intervention resulted in the creation of an outdoor calisthenics space — a place for exercise, training, and active leisure.

The space is freely accessible to all community members and encourages the adoption of a healthy lifestyle.

“This is exactly what we were missing. Now we have a place to train without having to go to another neighborhood,” said a young person already using the installed equipment.

Another user added:

“I like that it’s an open space where both teens and adults come. It creates a positive energy in the community.”

Real Impact, Real Skills

The two interventions — one small-scale and one large-scale — directly involved community members in the decision-making process and mobilized dozens of participants during the implementation phase.

Beyond the visible physical results, the project had a significant personal impact: the development of leadership, planning, communication, teamwork, and responsibility-taking skills.

For many participants, this was their first experience of civic engagement.

“I learned how to make a plan, how to talk with authorities, and how to organize a team. It’s an experience that helped me gain more confidence,” said one of the young people.

Celebrating Success

The process concluded with pop-up/tactical events, inviting the community to discover and activate the new spaces. The atmosphere was festive — a confirmation that youth engagement can generate tangible and appreciated changes.

Through the Youth Placemaking Balkans (YPB) project, AJSPT reaffirms the importance of sport for all and the active participation of young people in community life.

When young people are listened to, supported, and genuinely involved, public spaces become more than just places — they become hubs of meeting, energy, and belonging.