“Level Up Your Leadership Skills” was an Erasmus+ training course hosted by YETF in Paphos and designed to respond to a growing need in youth work: preparing youth workers to act as strong, supportive leaders for young people navigating an increasingly complex world. With distractions, uncertainty, and shifting values affecting young people’s confidence and direction, youth workers are often the ones who provide stability, guidance, and inspiration — and this project aimed to equip them with the tools to do so effectively.
Over 11 months, the project supported 25 youth workers in understanding leadership from multiple perspectives, including roles, styles, key qualities, and the positive impact good leaders can have on young people’s development. During the mobility, participants explored practical leadership skills such as needs assessment, communication, team building, group management, active decision-making, and supportive guidance practices using non-formal education methods.
The programme blended theoretical input with hands-on exercises, simulations, reflection sessions, and group challenges, enabling youth workers to practice leadership in real-time and gain confidence in their abilities. They learned how to structure activities, motivate young people, create safe learning spaces, and guide groups with clarity and empathy.
By the end of the project, participants reported feeling more confident, better organised, and more motivated to apply leadership principles in their work. They improved their ability to plan youth activities, facilitate learning experiences, and act as positive role models within their communities. The project successfully strengthened leadership competencies both at personal and organisational levels, empowering youth workers to support young people with purpose and integrity.
