Members' Blog

On Monday 22nd April 2024, Leah Meirion from Nantglyn in Clwyd, embarked on an unforgettable journey to Budapest, Hungary, for the “Rural Youth Work 101” study session, organised by Rural Youth Europe in cooperation with the Council of Europe and the European Youth Centre in Budapest. The event gathered 35 enthusiastic young people from rural communities across Europe, all united by a common goal: to advance the inclusion of rural youth through volunteering and community-building.

We caught up with Leah to here all bout her experience on the Spring Seminar…

“As I set out on this adventure, I wasn’t really sure what I had signed up for, which in turn made it even more rewarding. Meeting new people from diverse backgrounds, comparing the work of different organisations, and discussing the unique challenges we all face in rural youth work was an eye-opening experience. The session not only raised awareness about the importance of rural youth work, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, but also equipped us with the tools to become changemakers in our communities.

One of the most memorable aspects of the study session was the opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences with my peers. It was fascinating to see how different organisations operate and to learn about the innovative approaches being taken to build resilient rural communities. The creation of a toolkit of good practices for community-building was particularly inspiring, as it highlighted the practical steps we can take to make a real difference in our local areas.

But the study session was not just about learning and discussion; it was also a celebration of our cultures and shared experiences. I was thrilled to share the incredible work of Wales Young Farmers with delegates from other countries, and it was truly mind-blowing for some of them to see the scope and impact of our organisation, and how we can cater for all different ages and interests. The connections I made during this week were invaluable, and I can now proudly say that I have friends in over 14 different countries across Europe, from Armenia to Austria, and even Latvia. Some who I speak with daily 4 months on.

As the week came to an end, I left Budapest with a deep sense of gratitude and a renewed passion for rural youth work. The experience was a powerful reminder that, no matter where we come from, we all share the same desire to make our rural communities stronger, and mostly face the same challenges.

I would encourage anyone with a passion for rural youth work or who loves meeting new people and learning about the world around them to take part in similar opportunities. The connections, knowledge, and experiences you gain are truly life-changing. I cannot wait to meet up with my new European friends again soon, although it might take me a few years to get around to see them all!”