The DYou project aims to train youth organisations and youth professionals in the use of digital tools that allow them to replicate face-to-face activities virtually, while maintaining the principles and values of youth work. It seeks to encourage the co-creation of innovative solutions that support the digitalisation of the sector and facilitate the active participation of young people in learning, organisation and connection processes. DYou promotes a smooth transition to the digital environment, ensuring that organisations can adapt to new needs without losing impact or quality.
Among the materials developed, the DigitalYOu web platform stands out, designed to be a functional and accessible space, aligned with the needs of people and organisations working in the youth field. To create this platform, previous research was carried out such as the report “Do (NOT) digitalise me” and an international hackathon in Serbia in which youth organisations from all over Europe participated. The DigitalYOu platform is structured on three fundamental pillars: Engage, a virtual office that facilitates remote teamwork, bringing together all the necessary resources in one room; Empower, a conference room for online training and workshops, and Connect, a space for online networking events with organisations from all over Europe. In addition, each of these functions has an e-learning curriculum with practical and interactive activities to get the most out of each tool, and specific training materials that support the implementation of effective digital practices.
The impact of DYou was particularly evident in the two virtual networking events organised on the DYOu platform. These events brought together more than 50 youth organisations from 15 different European countries. These fairs not only served to present the platform and its functions, but also created opportunities for collaboration and networking between organisations interested in digitalising their work. Active participation in these events allowed attendees to explore the platform’s tools, share experiences and gain new ideas for integrating digital solutions into their own practices. This practical and collaborative approach consolidated DYou’s role as a key resource in the European youth sector.