Prioritising the places and people that need it the most
YOUTHINK Penedès
Youth Territorial Hub for Innovation & Knowledge in Penedès
La Llar de la Recerca is a youth association based in Alt Penedès that promotes creativity and research among young people through self-managed and collaborative projects, particularly in STEAM fields. Enclaved in a rural environment, it advocates for the decentralization of knowledge, equal opportunities, and innovation. It fosters youth leadership, science communication, and networking to transform the region and create social impact.
Spain
Regional
The Alt Penedès county, located in the province of Barcelona, mainly the municipalities of Vilafranca del Penedès and Torrelles de Foix.
It addresses urban-rural linkages
It refers to other types of transformations (soft investment)
Prototype level
No
No
As a representative of an organisation
La Llar de la Recerca is a youth association based in Alt Penedès that drives collaborative projects to foster creativity among high school and university students, focusing on STEAM disciplines. Our goal is to provide tools and support so that any young person, regardless of gender or socioeconomic background, can turn their ideas into reality. Through a mentorship model and networking, our organization stimulates research, science communication, and the decentralization of knowledge towards rural and disadvantaged areas.
The project is structured around two main pillars. On one hand, we offer a weekly space where participants develop their initiatives with access to resources, equipment, and guidance; this environment encourages autonomy, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. On the other hand, we organize cultural and outreach activities that give a broad and critical perspective on reality.
Since 2021, our organization has made a significant impact on the region, establishing partnerships with universities and research centers while attracting hundreds of attendees to its events. Several projects have been recognized with awards, demonstrating the value of the initiative. Additionally, our association stands out for its youth-led governance, based on active participation and democratic decision-making, promoting a culture of responsibility and social commitment and rotation into responsibility positions.
The association was born in Torrelles de Foix, a small village with discouraging social indicators. Two years ago, we opened a new space in the most conflictive neighbourhood of Vilafranca del Pendès, the nearest town. With two headquarters in rural and disadvantaged areas, our organization serves as a catalyst for local transformation, strengthening territorial identity and creating opportunities for young talent. In just a few years, it has proven its potential for continued growth, bringing its motto to life: YOUTH THINK.
The project is structured around two main pillars. On one hand, we offer a weekly space where participants develop their initiatives with access to resources, equipment, and guidance; this environment encourages autonomy, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. On the other hand, we organize cultural and outreach activities that give a broad and critical perspective on reality.
Since 2021, our organization has made a significant impact on the region, establishing partnerships with universities and research centers while attracting hundreds of attendees to its events. Several projects have been recognized with awards, demonstrating the value of the initiative. Additionally, our association stands out for its youth-led governance, based on active participation and democratic decision-making, promoting a culture of responsibility and social commitment and rotation into responsibility positions.
The association was born in Torrelles de Foix, a small village with discouraging social indicators. Two years ago, we opened a new space in the most conflictive neighbourhood of Vilafranca del Pendès, the nearest town. With two headquarters in rural and disadvantaged areas, our organization serves as a catalyst for local transformation, strengthening territorial identity and creating opportunities for young talent. In just a few years, it has proven its potential for continued growth, bringing its motto to life: YOUTH THINK.
Curiosity
Research
Non-formal education
Knowledge
Youth engagement
Local Engagement and Strategic Partnerships. Collaborations with schools, universities and businesses strengthen the project’s impact and facilitate access to resources and infrastructure. These partnerships help integrate the initiative into the socio-economic net of Alt Penedès while decentralizing educational and cultural opportunities. Nowadays we have partnerships with 3 universities, 4 research centers and several local entities.
Self-Management and Youth Empowerment. Our association's governance is based on active youth participation, with periodic leadership rotation and collective decision-making. This structure promotes responsibility and community engagement while ensuring the project's continuity through generational transition.
Sustainable Impact on the Community. The developed projects not only have an immediate effect on participants but also generate lasting knowledge that benefits the wider community. This model ensures that the value created by the association is reinvested into the region, contributing to its social and cultural revitalization. This is especially true when the participants lack other opportunities.
Diversification of Funding Sources. Our organization avoids relying solely on public grants by securing agreements with private entities, sponsorships, and crowdfunding initiatives. This strategy ensures financial stability and allows adaptability to changing circumstances, guaranteeing the long-term viability of the project.
Resource Efficiency. Our organization works for the reuse and optimization of equipment, as well as partnerships with other entities to repurpose obsolete materials. Environmental sustainability is a key consideration in all activities, minimizing ecological impact and promoting responsible practices.
This integrated approach positions the association as a model of sustainability, demonstrating that a youth-led initiative can grow and transform its environment in a self-managed and efficient manner.
Self-Management and Youth Empowerment. Our association's governance is based on active youth participation, with periodic leadership rotation and collective decision-making. This structure promotes responsibility and community engagement while ensuring the project's continuity through generational transition.
Sustainable Impact on the Community. The developed projects not only have an immediate effect on participants but also generate lasting knowledge that benefits the wider community. This model ensures that the value created by the association is reinvested into the region, contributing to its social and cultural revitalization. This is especially true when the participants lack other opportunities.
Diversification of Funding Sources. Our organization avoids relying solely on public grants by securing agreements with private entities, sponsorships, and crowdfunding initiatives. This strategy ensures financial stability and allows adaptability to changing circumstances, guaranteeing the long-term viability of the project.
Resource Efficiency. Our organization works for the reuse and optimization of equipment, as well as partnerships with other entities to repurpose obsolete materials. Environmental sustainability is a key consideration in all activities, minimizing ecological impact and promoting responsible practices.
This integrated approach positions the association as a model of sustainability, demonstrating that a youth-led initiative can grow and transform its environment in a self-managed and efficient manner.
Our association was founded with a commitment to excellence, demonstrated through rigorous management, partnerships with prestigious institutions, and the high quality of participants' work—some of which have received awards. Additionally, involvement in renowned regional cultural festivals and the organization of independent cultural events have enriched the intellectual landscape of the region.
The environmental setting of the founding headquarters, enclaved in the edge of a protected area within the Nature 2000 European Network, serves both an aesthetic and conceptual purpose. This privileged environment fosters creative activities inspired by nature and provides a unique background for music concerts and theatrical performances, set against forests and fields. At the same time, it brings the beauty of theater, music, and knowledge into a rural context, reinforcing the idea that culture and intellectual growth are not exclusive to urban centers.
Our association’s visual identity was developed through a collaborative process with a local start-up. The typography, reminiscent of the one used by some universities, aims to evoke these temples of knowledge, which, at least in Europe, are accessible to nearly everyone. The corporate colors—yellow and green—were carefully chosen to reflect the association’s core values. Yellow symbolizes the freedom to be yourself in a supportive and cooperative environment, while green represents the hope that everyone can contribute to making the world a better place. Additionally, green pays homage to the Penedès region, known for its vineyards and olive groves.
The environmental setting of the founding headquarters, enclaved in the edge of a protected area within the Nature 2000 European Network, serves both an aesthetic and conceptual purpose. This privileged environment fosters creative activities inspired by nature and provides a unique background for music concerts and theatrical performances, set against forests and fields. At the same time, it brings the beauty of theater, music, and knowledge into a rural context, reinforcing the idea that culture and intellectual growth are not exclusive to urban centers.
Our association’s visual identity was developed through a collaborative process with a local start-up. The typography, reminiscent of the one used by some universities, aims to evoke these temples of knowledge, which, at least in Europe, are accessible to nearly everyone. The corporate colors—yellow and green—were carefully chosen to reflect the association’s core values. Yellow symbolizes the freedom to be yourself in a supportive and cooperative environment, while green represents the hope that everyone can contribute to making the world a better place. Additionally, green pays homage to the Penedès region, known for its vineyards and olive groves.
Our association ensures inclusion in all its dimensions, guaranteeing that every young person, regardless of their background, gender or socioeconomic status, has access to space, mentorship and resources to develop their projects. To achieve this, the organization focuses on the following areas.
Universal access to knowledge. Economic obstacles are removed through a symbolic annual fee of €5 and free events, while geographical impediments are addressed by bringing knowledge beyond metropolitan areas. Social distance is also minimized—only curiosity and a desire to learn are required. Spaces provided by local administrations ensure a safe and open environment.
Promoting diversity and equal opportunities. Activities are designed with an inclusive perspective, avoiding barriers and encouraging the participation of underrepresented groups, as well as fostering awareness of different cultural realities.
Personalized mentorship and support. Individual guidance is offered based on personal needs and circumstances, ensuring that no one is left behind. Although it is a non-formal educational space, our association actively encourages young people to continue their education.
Active youth participation. Youth-led management ensures that the project aligns with their interests and needs, the horizontal structure allows all voices to be heard and valued. It also means an early leadership experience, developing not only the academic knowledge but also the soft skills needed for success.
Visibility and female leadership. The association actively works to ensure women’s participation and visibility, particularly in scientific and technological projects. Female speakers are invited to create role models, and efforts are made to maintain female representation in legal and institutional leadership roles.
Through these principles, our association builds an open, democratic and transformative space, making knowledge accessible and fostering talent without exclusions.
Universal access to knowledge. Economic obstacles are removed through a symbolic annual fee of €5 and free events, while geographical impediments are addressed by bringing knowledge beyond metropolitan areas. Social distance is also minimized—only curiosity and a desire to learn are required. Spaces provided by local administrations ensure a safe and open environment.
Promoting diversity and equal opportunities. Activities are designed with an inclusive perspective, avoiding barriers and encouraging the participation of underrepresented groups, as well as fostering awareness of different cultural realities.
Personalized mentorship and support. Individual guidance is offered based on personal needs and circumstances, ensuring that no one is left behind. Although it is a non-formal educational space, our association actively encourages young people to continue their education.
Active youth participation. Youth-led management ensures that the project aligns with their interests and needs, the horizontal structure allows all voices to be heard and valued. It also means an early leadership experience, developing not only the academic knowledge but also the soft skills needed for success.
Visibility and female leadership. The association actively works to ensure women’s participation and visibility, particularly in scientific and technological projects. Female speakers are invited to create role models, and efforts are made to maintain female representation in legal and institutional leadership roles.
Through these principles, our association builds an open, democratic and transformative space, making knowledge accessible and fostering talent without exclusions.
Our organization brings multiple benefits to the local community, especially to the young people who directly benefit from it, and more broadly the society of Alt Penedès, our region.
Youth empowerment. We provide young people with the opportunity to develop research and innovation projects, fostering their autonomy, creativity and critical thinking.
Equity in knowledge. By establishing itself in rural and socially disadvantaged areas, our organization brings science and culture closer to communities with fewer opportunities, promoting inclusion and equal access to learning.
Community development. The projects driven by our association have a direct impact on the local community, addressing local challenges and seeking to improve the quality of life in Alt Penedès while offering enriching experiences for participants and the wider public.
Strengthening social cohesion. The educational and cultural events open to the public create spaces for intergenerational and intercultural exchange, reinforcing local bonds.
Decentralization of opportunities. By operating outside of major urban centers, our association helps balance personal and professional development opportunities, preventing the concentration of resources in cities and revitalizing rural areas.
Networking with local stakeholders. Collaborations with local institutions, educational centers, universities and cultural organizations create synergies that strengthen the region’s research and innovation ecosystem. These partnerships, which range from enhancing the visibility of our organization to hosting workshops in school classrooms, expand the reach of projects.
Promotion of local innovation. Our association encourages creativity and research such as awards for outstanding pre-university projects, or Recercàrium, a competition recognizing high school student initiatives. These platforms showcase emerging talent and connect it with society, fostering knowledge transfer and new opportunities.
Youth empowerment. We provide young people with the opportunity to develop research and innovation projects, fostering their autonomy, creativity and critical thinking.
Equity in knowledge. By establishing itself in rural and socially disadvantaged areas, our organization brings science and culture closer to communities with fewer opportunities, promoting inclusion and equal access to learning.
Community development. The projects driven by our association have a direct impact on the local community, addressing local challenges and seeking to improve the quality of life in Alt Penedès while offering enriching experiences for participants and the wider public.
Strengthening social cohesion. The educational and cultural events open to the public create spaces for intergenerational and intercultural exchange, reinforcing local bonds.
Decentralization of opportunities. By operating outside of major urban centers, our association helps balance personal and professional development opportunities, preventing the concentration of resources in cities and revitalizing rural areas.
Networking with local stakeholders. Collaborations with local institutions, educational centers, universities and cultural organizations create synergies that strengthen the region’s research and innovation ecosystem. These partnerships, which range from enhancing the visibility of our organization to hosting workshops in school classrooms, expand the reach of projects.
Promotion of local innovation. Our association encourages creativity and research such as awards for outstanding pre-university projects, or Recercàrium, a competition recognizing high school student initiatives. These platforms showcase emerging talent and connect it with society, fostering knowledge transfer and new opportunities.
Our entity actively involves different stakeholder groups, favoring a collaboration network that ensures the sustainability and impact of its activities. Although it is a youth-driven, non-profit initiative, it has progressed due to its autonomy and self-management, as well as its collaboration with the community. The engagement strategy is based on the following pillars.
Young participants as active agents. They are not just beneficiaries but the main characters of the play, they are given a voice and responsibility in defining objectives, managing resources, and decision-making, promoting a horizontal model that enhances engagement.
Network of mentors and professionals. The association establishes links with researchers, educators, and professionals from various fields to offer personalized support to participants. This network ensures technical guidance and facilitates connections with the academic and professional worlds.
Collaboration with educational institutions and research centers. Our association works with schools, universities, and other entities to stimulate research. These alliances help validate and disseminate the projects developed, and give to the participants access to infrastructure and resources that would never be available without such collaborations.
Cooperating with the associative and institutional mesh. Synergies are created with associations and local administrations to decentralize knowledge and energize rural areas.
Reach to the community through different activities. Conferences, workshops, and events raise awareness about research and foster intergenerational dialogue.
Weekly face-to-face meetings are held with users, while telematic coordination between mentors and participants takes place throughout the week. The website and Instagram are also updated and external collaborations are evaluated in periodic meetings, while the most notable achievements are disseminated through local and regional media.
Young participants as active agents. They are not just beneficiaries but the main characters of the play, they are given a voice and responsibility in defining objectives, managing resources, and decision-making, promoting a horizontal model that enhances engagement.
Network of mentors and professionals. The association establishes links with researchers, educators, and professionals from various fields to offer personalized support to participants. This network ensures technical guidance and facilitates connections with the academic and professional worlds.
Collaboration with educational institutions and research centers. Our association works with schools, universities, and other entities to stimulate research. These alliances help validate and disseminate the projects developed, and give to the participants access to infrastructure and resources that would never be available without such collaborations.
Cooperating with the associative and institutional mesh. Synergies are created with associations and local administrations to decentralize knowledge and energize rural areas.
Reach to the community through different activities. Conferences, workshops, and events raise awareness about research and foster intergenerational dialogue.
Weekly face-to-face meetings are held with users, while telematic coordination between mentors and participants takes place throughout the week. The website and Instagram are also updated and external collaborations are evaluated in periodic meetings, while the most notable achievements are disseminated through local and regional media.
Our association aims at interdisciplinarity, avoiding knowledge parcellation, projecting an integrated perspective to generate a global and practical vision. Our activities thrive on constant interaction across multiple fields, enabling projects that combine research and social impact.
Applied Science and Technology. Scientific experimentation is a cornerstone of many of our projects. Young participants conduct research in fields such as biotechnology, applied physics, and chemistry. Access to specialized equipment and a strong self-learning culture enable them to make meaningful progress in their projects, while immersing themselves in the scientific method from an early age.
Engineering and Technical Development. Prototyping and the creation of technological tools play a crucial role. Programming, robotics, and electronics are combined with design to develop experimental devices and software applications.
Social Sciences and Humanities. The interactive format of outreach events encourages critical reflection on society. Participants use philosophical methodologies, conduct historical research on the region—some of which has been published—and develop sociological and psychological studies on the Penedès community.
Sustainability and Environment. The association promotes awareness of climate, energy, and social challenges through outreach efforts. The responsible and positive perspective on the future that we try to generate transcend the idea of being sustainable, to become sustainability in substance through the positive transformation of our society.
Creativity as a driver of innovation. Interdisciplinary work integrates art, design, and communication. Artistic expression aids in the transmission of knowledge, especially in the digital space where young people engage.
This approach allows the association to go beyond being a training space, evolving into a true creative laboratory where knowledge is collectively acquired and applied.
Applied Science and Technology. Scientific experimentation is a cornerstone of many of our projects. Young participants conduct research in fields such as biotechnology, applied physics, and chemistry. Access to specialized equipment and a strong self-learning culture enable them to make meaningful progress in their projects, while immersing themselves in the scientific method from an early age.
Engineering and Technical Development. Prototyping and the creation of technological tools play a crucial role. Programming, robotics, and electronics are combined with design to develop experimental devices and software applications.
Social Sciences and Humanities. The interactive format of outreach events encourages critical reflection on society. Participants use philosophical methodologies, conduct historical research on the region—some of which has been published—and develop sociological and psychological studies on the Penedès community.
Sustainability and Environment. The association promotes awareness of climate, energy, and social challenges through outreach efforts. The responsible and positive perspective on the future that we try to generate transcend the idea of being sustainable, to become sustainability in substance through the positive transformation of our society.
Creativity as a driver of innovation. Interdisciplinary work integrates art, design, and communication. Artistic expression aids in the transmission of knowledge, especially in the digital space where young people engage.
This approach allows the association to go beyond being a training space, evolving into a true creative laboratory where knowledge is collectively acquired and applied.
The traditional concept of learning as a vertical transmission of knowledge is outdated in a world where centuries of accumulated knowledge are just a click away. New models must be developed—disruptive, experimental, and decentralized, far from conventional academic settings. Our organization encourages users to benefit from a holistic learning experience by designing and executing their own ideas (enhancing self-learning and autonomy) while also leveraging our association’s interdisciplinary approach. Its innovative character is reflected in the following points.
Horizontal mentorship. Young participants receive guidance from experts but also serve as role models for their peers, creating a collaborative learning community that enables autonomy and social cohesion.
Inclusive and applied perspective. The organization promotes STEAM projects addressing real challenges in the region, as well as humanities-based initiatives connected to Penedès' cultural identity. This ensures practical applications with a direct impact on the community, often recognized in local competitions.
Democratic and participatory governance. As an altruistic association free from private constraints, it has full autonomy to democratically decide its direction. This reinforces a sense of belonging, responsibility, and cooperative leadership. What is more, our organization is mainly youth-led and self-managed, a powerful and uncommon element that contributes to personal growth and management experience from an early age.
Decentralization of knowledge. By bringing research and outreach opportunities to young people outside major cities, the organization removes barriers and makes scientific and cultural exploration accessible to all.
A unique creative laboratory. The freedom to explore outside the conventional classroom and the interdisciplinary approach allow the development of projects without academic rigidity, fostering creativity and critical thinking.
Horizontal mentorship. Young participants receive guidance from experts but also serve as role models for their peers, creating a collaborative learning community that enables autonomy and social cohesion.
Inclusive and applied perspective. The organization promotes STEAM projects addressing real challenges in the region, as well as humanities-based initiatives connected to Penedès' cultural identity. This ensures practical applications with a direct impact on the community, often recognized in local competitions.
Democratic and participatory governance. As an altruistic association free from private constraints, it has full autonomy to democratically decide its direction. This reinforces a sense of belonging, responsibility, and cooperative leadership. What is more, our organization is mainly youth-led and self-managed, a powerful and uncommon element that contributes to personal growth and management experience from an early age.
Decentralization of knowledge. By bringing research and outreach opportunities to young people outside major cities, the organization removes barriers and makes scientific and cultural exploration accessible to all.
A unique creative laboratory. The freedom to explore outside the conventional classroom and the interdisciplinary approach allow the development of projects without academic rigidity, fostering creativity and critical thinking.
Participation, self-management and guided autonomy are the cornerstones of our association. The project is built by and for the participants. These general objectives are achieved through five main pillars.
Project-based and self-learning. The participants develop a project, stemming from their own curiosity and ideas. From conception to delivery, the students are mentored through a learning process where failure is the beginning of improvement.
Mentorship and support. Each participant is guided by mentors who provide technical and methodological guidance, encouraging critical reflection and personal development. Interaction with researchers and professionals helps connect participants with the academic and professional world. La Llar plays a pivotal role in establishing these connections.
Culture of cooperation. Projects are tackled collectively, leveraging complementary knowledge and interaction between disciplines. When someone needs to define or redefine their initiative, brainstorming sessions are often held.
Knowledge transfer. The first knowledge transference is horizontal, amongst the participants who share what they know to build on their projects. Then there is an expansive transference, when the projects are made public, or when complementary outreach activities are organized. This ensures real impact and contributes to the universality of knowledge, especially in rural and underprivileged environments.
Evaluation and continuous improvement. The methodology involves constant review and feedback, both internally and through exchanges with external collaborators. This allows for adjustments to projects based on results and the changing needs of the community and participants.
This approach enhances autonomy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, sparks creativity, and delivers a learning that goes way beyond the studied subjects,while also supporting the creation of a young innovation and research ecosystem in the region.
Project-based and self-learning. The participants develop a project, stemming from their own curiosity and ideas. From conception to delivery, the students are mentored through a learning process where failure is the beginning of improvement.
Mentorship and support. Each participant is guided by mentors who provide technical and methodological guidance, encouraging critical reflection and personal development. Interaction with researchers and professionals helps connect participants with the academic and professional world. La Llar plays a pivotal role in establishing these connections.
Culture of cooperation. Projects are tackled collectively, leveraging complementary knowledge and interaction between disciplines. When someone needs to define or redefine their initiative, brainstorming sessions are often held.
Knowledge transfer. The first knowledge transference is horizontal, amongst the participants who share what they know to build on their projects. Then there is an expansive transference, when the projects are made public, or when complementary outreach activities are organized. This ensures real impact and contributes to the universality of knowledge, especially in rural and underprivileged environments.
Evaluation and continuous improvement. The methodology involves constant review and feedback, both internally and through exchanges with external collaborators. This allows for adjustments to projects based on results and the changing needs of the community and participants.
This approach enhances autonomy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, sparks creativity, and delivers a learning that goes way beyond the studied subjects,while also supporting the creation of a young innovation and research ecosystem in the region.
A replicable and inspiring model of innovation and learning has been created, which can benefit other initiatives both locally and globally. The accumulated experience in managing a youth research space has allowed the identification of best practices and methodologies that can be useful to other organizations, educational centers, and institutions.
Reproduction of the idea in other regions. The organizational structure and the operational framework of the association can be adapted to different rural and urban contexts to promote youth research and creativity in other areas. The combination of self-management, mentorship, and networked collaboration forms an exportable methodology.
Collaboration with other entities. Participation in conferences and seminars has allowed the association to share its experience with academic institutions, cultural organizations, and other collectives, contributing to the dissemination of its implemented practices.
Knowledge exchange with educational centers. Partnered schools and universities have benefited from the association's experience, incorporating some of its practices into their own activities or revising certain assessment criteria to update their approach. This has helped bridge the gap between formal and non-formal education.
Promotion of a youth research network. Through connections with similar initiatives, a collective learning ecosystem has been strengthened, where best practices can be shared and adapted to the needs of each environment.
In summary, the association not only benefits its direct participants but also positions itself as a reference capable of inspiring other communities to adopt innovative models for research and non-formal education.
Reproduction of the idea in other regions. The organizational structure and the operational framework of the association can be adapted to different rural and urban contexts to promote youth research and creativity in other areas. The combination of self-management, mentorship, and networked collaboration forms an exportable methodology.
Collaboration with other entities. Participation in conferences and seminars has allowed the association to share its experience with academic institutions, cultural organizations, and other collectives, contributing to the dissemination of its implemented practices.
Knowledge exchange with educational centers. Partnered schools and universities have benefited from the association's experience, incorporating some of its practices into their own activities or revising certain assessment criteria to update their approach. This has helped bridge the gap between formal and non-formal education.
Promotion of a youth research network. Through connections with similar initiatives, a collective learning ecosystem has been strengthened, where best practices can be shared and adapted to the needs of each environment.
In summary, the association not only benefits its direct participants but also positions itself as a reference capable of inspiring other communities to adopt innovative models for research and non-formal education.
The association confronts global challenges through local action with a transformative vision, contributing to solving key issues in areas such as education and sustainability.
Equal access to education and research. In many regions, especially rural areas, access to scientific, technological, and cultural resources is limited, particularly for disadvantaged groups. The association breaks this barrier by providing a space where any young person can develop their curiosity and creativity, regardless of their socio-economic status.
Decentralization of innovation. The concentration of opportunities in large cities perpetuates territorial imbalances. Our association is based in a rural area to prove that research can thrive outside urban centers.
Promotion of sustainability and environmental awareness. In the face of a climate emergency, a critical and committed perspective towards the planet is essential. Environmental outreach is stimulated, empowering young people to become agents of change. The enclave of the foundational headquarters right at the doors of a Natural Reserve included in the EU reserves «Nature 2000» makes the environment much more than a study topic: it is an ever-present changing landscape that makes sustainability a tangible necessity.
Gender equality in science and leadership. The gender gap in STEAM fields and leadership roles remains a challenge. The association fosters female role models in science and technology and ensures equal participation.
Social cohesion and youth participation. The lack of youth involvement in decision-making is a global issue. The association adopts a participatory governance model where young people take responsibility and lead initiatives with real impact.
Through this local action with a global perspective, the association helps address urgent challenges of the 21st century, fully aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4, 5, 10, and 11.
Equal access to education and research. In many regions, especially rural areas, access to scientific, technological, and cultural resources is limited, particularly for disadvantaged groups. The association breaks this barrier by providing a space where any young person can develop their curiosity and creativity, regardless of their socio-economic status.
Decentralization of innovation. The concentration of opportunities in large cities perpetuates territorial imbalances. Our association is based in a rural area to prove that research can thrive outside urban centers.
Promotion of sustainability and environmental awareness. In the face of a climate emergency, a critical and committed perspective towards the planet is essential. Environmental outreach is stimulated, empowering young people to become agents of change. The enclave of the foundational headquarters right at the doors of a Natural Reserve included in the EU reserves «Nature 2000» makes the environment much more than a study topic: it is an ever-present changing landscape that makes sustainability a tangible necessity.
Gender equality in science and leadership. The gender gap in STEAM fields and leadership roles remains a challenge. The association fosters female role models in science and technology and ensures equal participation.
Social cohesion and youth participation. The lack of youth involvement in decision-making is a global issue. The association adopts a participatory governance model where young people take responsibility and lead initiatives with real impact.
Through this local action with a global perspective, the association helps address urgent challenges of the 21st century, fully aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4, 5, 10, and 11.
A replicable and inspiring model of innovation and learning has been created, which can benefit other initiatives both locally and globally. The accumulated experience in managing a youth research space has allowed the identification of best practices and methodologies that can be useful to other organizations, educational centers, and institutions.
Reproduction of the idea in other regions. The organizational structure and the operational framework of the association can be adapted to different rural and urban contexts to promote youth research and creativity in other areas. The combination of self-management, mentorship, and networked collaboration forms an exportable methodology.
Collaboration with other entities. Participation in conferences and seminars has allowed the association to share its experience with academic institutions, cultural organizations, and other collectives, contributing to the dissemination of its implemented practices.
Knowledge exchange with educational centers. Partnered schools and universities have benefited from the association's experience, incorporating some of its practices into their own activities or revising certain assessment criteria to update their approach. This has helped bridge the gap between formal and non-formal education.
Promotion of a youth research network. Through connections with similar initiatives, a collective learning ecosystem has been strengthened, where best practices can be shared and adapted to the needs of each environment.
In summary, the association not only benefits its direct participants but also positions itself as a reference capable of inspiring other communities to adopt innovative models for research and non-formal education.
Reproduction of the idea in other regions. The organizational structure and the operational framework of the association can be adapted to different rural and urban contexts to promote youth research and creativity in other areas. The combination of self-management, mentorship, and networked collaboration forms an exportable methodology.
Collaboration with other entities. Participation in conferences and seminars has allowed the association to share its experience with academic institutions, cultural organizations, and other collectives, contributing to the dissemination of its implemented practices.
Knowledge exchange with educational centers. Partnered schools and universities have benefited from the association's experience, incorporating some of its practices into their own activities or revising certain assessment criteria to update their approach. This has helped bridge the gap between formal and non-formal education.
Promotion of a youth research network. Through connections with similar initiatives, a collective learning ecosystem has been strengthened, where best practices can be shared and adapted to the needs of each environment.
In summary, the association not only benefits its direct participants but also positions itself as a reference capable of inspiring other communities to adopt innovative models for research and non-formal education.
