Over 30 young leaders from 5 rural communities in the Republic of Moldova gathered in Chisinau for the Young Influencers Forum, an event dedicated to the exchange of ideas, open dialogue, and promoting the involvement of young people from rural areas in the community development processes.
Organized as part of the “Learn. Discuss. Act” project, the Forum brought together representatives of local and central public authorities, non-governmental organizations, as well as experts and activists, providing a real space for interaction between young people and decision-makers.
“This initiative is our organization’s response to the many challenges and problems faced by young people in rural areas. The project continues our efforts to bring young people closer to the decision – making process, to involve them in civic activities and collaboration with local public administration, as well as to attract investments that can improve the quality of life in their communities.” – Tatiana Cosuleanu, executive director of iRi.
“The aim of this project was to increase young people’s involvement in the decision – making process. It is essential to reach as many young people as possible, especially those in remote communities who have limited access to platforms and opportunities. We are delighted for iRi and its partners who managed to connect these young people. Our message is that this initiative is just the beginning and that we will continue to offer such opportunities in the future.” – Anastasia Esanu, advisor, EU4Youth, GIZ.
During the event, young participants had the opportunity to share their experiences and success stories regarding civic participation, volunteering, and community development initiatives. In turn, representatives of the local authorities presented good practices and concrete commitments to empower and support young people in their community.
“This Forum demonstrates that the voices of young people in rural areas matter and must be heard. Investing in them is a valuable contribution in the future of a prosperous and equitable Moldova.” – Stas Cebotari, young influencer, Drochia town.
“The fact that we meet, that we are listened to, and that we learn from each other makes us stronger. That is what empowering young people really means.” – Mihaela Iacub, young influencer, Boscana village, Criuleni district.
The event was not only a moment of reflection and assessment, but also a celebration of the courage, initiative, and dedication of young people who actively contribute to revitalizing civic spirit in Moldovan villages. Their active participation demonstrates that rural Moldova is ready to align itself with European values, with young people being an essential resource for the country’s future.
“Young people have great ideas and valuable initiatives. Our role as an organization is to provide them with the support and tools they need to turn these ideas into public policies that contribute to the sustainable development of the youth sector in rural areas.” – Lilia Sula, programs coordinator, iRi.
The Forum was organised as part of the project “Learn. Discuss. Act: empowering youth and local stakeholders for increasing the influence of youth on local, district and national levels”, implemented by the Institute for Rural Initiatives (iRi) with the support of the “EU4Youth: Youth Engagement and Empowerment” project, co – funded by the European Union and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).