URBAN FOR YOUTH – School of Community Urbanism is an innovative initiative dedicated to young people aged 16 to 22 from villages, towns, and municipalities across Moldova who wish to actively contribute to the development of their communities.
Through training, mentorship, and financial support, the project aims to empower young people to become local leaders capable of identifying urban needs and implementing real solutions in their own localities.
Key Stages of the Project:
1. Online Training – “URBANISM IS COOL” (June 2025):
Participants will learn the basic concepts of participatory urbanism, community research, and the tools needed to identify local challenges. The sessions are open to all selected applicants.
2. Community Research:
Young participants will analyze the situation in their communities and document the main local needs. The 20 most relevant and well-documented research projects will be selected for the next stage.
3. Summer Camp (July 2025):
20 young people will take part in a free 5-day intensive bootcamp alongside mentors and experts in urbanism, activism, and community development. They will learn about participatory design, advocacy, project management, fundraising, and sustainable development.
4. Mini-Grants & Project Implementation (August 2025):
Participants will organize local crowdfunding campaigns, and Laolaltă will match the funds raised with mini-grants of up to $1,000 USD. 10 projects will be implemented, focusing on transforming public spaces, mobility, inclusion, and social cohesion.
5. Final Event & Alumni Network (September 2025):
Project results will be presented publicly during a final event. Program graduates will become part of an active network of young urbanists, supporting future initiatives and peer exchange.
The School of Community Urbanism promotes civic engagement, spatial equity, and the building of a more inclusive urban future. The project encourages the participation of youth from all social backgrounds, especially those from marginalized or underrepresented groups, offering not only knowledge but also tangible resources to take action.
The project is implemented by Laolaltă with the support of the Ukraine-Moldova American Enterprise Fund (UMAEF).