Apie
This activity is for participants taking part in the Cities of Learning study visit for Networking and Advocating.
This interactive session is designed to facilitate the exchange of ideas and uncover new opportunities for collaboration within the Cities of Learning Network and beyond. By preparing and discussing concise "conversation starter" posters, participants will share their organizational focus, identify common interests, and explore potential partnerships. This activity directly enhances "Networking and Advocating", "Communicating Meaningfully", and "Designing Programmes" competence areas within the European Training Strategy (ETS) Competence Model for Youth Workers.
Why this activity? (Structured Exchange & Future Partnerships)
Building on the connections made during the study visit, this session provides a focused yet informal environment for participants to showcase their work, articulate their priorities, and express their collaboration interests. The poster format encourages clear, concise communication, making it easier to identify synergies and potential partners quickly. It's an excellent way to move from general introductions to concrete discussions about shared visions and actionable projects, ultimately strengthening the fabric of the Cities of Learning Network and its outreach.
Objectives of the activity
- To concisely present key aspects of participants' organisations, including target groups and thematic/skill focuses.
- To clearly articulate interest in future collaboration.
- To discover shared interests, complementary strengths, and potential project ideas with other participants.
- To initiate meaningful conversations that could lead to new partnerships and international opportunities.
- To enhance skills in presenting ideas clearly and engaging in focused networking, contributing to "Communicating Meaningfully".
- To actively seek out and identify opportunities for collaborative projects, supporting "Networking and Advocating".
Instructions
Prepare your Poster: Each participant should prepare a small poster (e.g., a single A4 or A3 sheet, digital, hand-drawn or printed) that clearly presents three key points to spark conversation about ideas and collaboration:
- Target groups your organisation engages with: Who do you primarily work with? (e.g., disconnected youth, adult learners, specific communities, professionals).
- Themes/skills you focus on: What are the main areas of learning or development your organisation specialises in? (e.g., volunteering, digital skills, green skills, civic engagement, entrepreneurship, arts, vocational training).
- What collaboration interests do you have? What kind of partnerships or projects are you seeking? (e.g., joint project applications, peer learning exchanges, sharing methodologies, developing new learning pathways, badging initiatives).

Poster conversation session:
- During the session, participants will display their posters.
- Engage in a "gallery walk" or a structured rotation, where participants move around, view each other's posters, and initiate short, focused conversations.
- Use the three points on each poster as a starting point for discussion, aiming to identify common ground, potential challenges, and concrete ideas for future collaboration.
After the session
- These posters can be used for afternoon session.
Completion & Badge
By actively preparing their poster, engaging in the "Ideas and Opportunities" conversations, and exploring potential collaborations, participants will earn the "Collaboration Catalyst" badge! This badge signifies proactive engagement in identifying shared interests, articulating potential contributions, and fostering new partnerships within the Cities of Learning Network for future impactful projects. This contribution directly supports the development of "Networking and Advocating", "Communicating Meaningfully", and "Designing Programmes" competence areas as defined by the ETS Competence Model for Youth Workers. This badge has been issued by the Cities of Learning Network Partner trio who are managing the Network.
Activity cover picture (c) Karolina Grabowska
Vieta
Franklin Rooseveltplaats, Antwerpen, Belgium