This activity is for participants taking part in the Cities of Learning study visit for Networking and Advocating.

• Kitchen Assistant Training for Non-Dutch Speakers (Opleiding keukenmedewerker voor anderstaligen): For over 10 years, GATAM has offered this training in Antwerp, combining practical kitchen floor experience with Dutch lessons specifically for the hospitality sector. This is followed by an internship in their restaurant, Samenloop, supported by a warm team, strong training, and job search guidance.
• Culture Factory (Cultuurfabriek): Focusing on craft and custom work, this initiative has years of experience with projects for the broader cultural sector. They handle decor construction, stands, stages, and exhibition structures, as well as custom furniture and original stools or tables, working with wood and steel in collaboration with interior architects, scenographers, and other designers.
• Heritage Work (Werken aan erfgoed): Their technical teams undertake large-scale restoration projects, such as the impressive collection of harbour cranes at Rijnkaai or their own ship, the François Musin O305. This work emphasizes expertise, attention to detail, teamwork, and safety.
• Open Learning House (Open Leerhuis): This offers short, modular courses for non-Dutch speaking newcomers, combinable with NT2 (Dutch as a second language) lessons. The curriculum covers digital skills, mathematics, VCA (safety, health and environment checklist for contractors), mobility, and labour market competencies.
• Support for Alternating Learning (Ondersteuning alternerend leren): GATAM provides work experience in their internal metal, wood, renovation, and car body repair workshops, or in one of their horeca projects, for individuals following dual learning or work-study programs. Their coaches provide comprehensive guidance from start to finish for those seeking work experience with a company or organisation.
• Guidance to Work and Well-being (Begeleiding naar werk en welzijn): As part of the Horizon network with the City of Antwerp and 14 other partners, GATAM supports non-working Antwerp citizens facing multiple challenges, guiding them towards employment and improved well-being.

• Empowering Individuals: GATAM focuses on economic independence and integration, while Cities of Learning Network members champions personal development and recognition of all learning.
• Bridging Gaps: GATAM connects individuals to the labour market; Cities of Learning connects learners to opportunities and validates diverse learning pathways.
• Community Building: GATAM builds connections across the city, fostering a sense of belonging. Cities of Learning also strengthens local learning ecosystems and networks.
• Advocacy for Value: Both entities inherently advocate for the value of individuals often overlooked by traditional systems – GATAM for those distant from the labour market, Cities of Learning for the recognition of non-formal learning and the contributions of youth work.

• To gain a deeper understanding of GATAM's mission, target groups, and practical methodologies for supporting individuals furthest removed from the labour market.
• To share the vision and functionality of the Cities of Learning platform and Network with GATAM, exploring potential areas of collaboration.
• To identify shared challenges and best practices in empowering diverse learners and fostering integration within communities.
• To actively network with GATAM representatives and explore opportunities for future partnerships.
• To practice advocating for the recognition of non-formal learning and the value of youth work and adult education.
• To critically reflect on how GATAM's "Connection works" baseline can inspire and inform Cities of Learning initiatives.

• Participants will briefly review GATAM's mission and activities (as outlined above).
• Prepare 1-2 questions to ask GATAM representatives, focusing on their methodologies, successes, or challenges that resonate with your own work or the Cities of Learning approach.
• Be ready to briefly introduce your own organisation's work and its connection to Cities of Learning.

• Actively listen to GATAM's presentations and explanations of their work.
• Engage in respectful and constructive dialogue, asking your prepared questions and participating in discussions.
• Be prepared to share how the Cities of Learning platform or network could potentially complement or support GATAM’s objectives, focusing on mutual benefit.
• Observe specific examples of how GATAM fosters connection, engagement, and advocacy in their daily operations.

• Consider what key insights you gained from GATAM’s approach.
• Reflect on any new ideas for how your organisation or the Cities of Learning Network could strengthen its work with marginalised groups or enhance its advocacy efforts.
• Note down any potential concrete follow-up actions or partnership opportunities identified during the visit.