The project Giovane è Leader (GEL – Young is Leader), promoted by the Municipality of Reana del Rojale (UD) and theInternational Sociology Institute of Gorizia (ISIG), involved boys and girls between 16 and 22 years old in a series of workshops focused on the development of the leadership and skills of public speaking. These tools have been essential in fostering active participation in democratic life, conscious citizenship and personal growth. The project offered those who participated the opportunity to become protagonists in their own development, stimulating civic engagement and providing skills to assert themselves in various areas of daily life.
Program Goals
The program aimed to develop a range of skills, including:
- Knowing and understanding one’s leadership style.
- Strengthen the ability to communicate effectively in public.
- Increasing confidence in one’s leadership abilities.
- Enhance active listening and collaboration in groups.
- Apply the skills learned to the development of community projects and activities.
Program Structure
The program Giovane è Leader (GEL) developed into 5 interactive meetings, each of which included a combination of hands-on activities, individual and group exercises, games, presentations and discussions. A group of 15 young people had the opportunity to get to know each other and work together, sharing experiences and learning how to compare and collaborate constructively. Each meeting combined moments of reflection and hands-on activities that allowed the group to explore and develop leadership skills, combining “in-class” work activities with activities to be developed “at home” to become more familiar with the concepts covered and apply what they learned to real situations.
During practical exercises, such as OUR SUPERHERO, they were tasked with creating an imaginary character representative of the group’s leadership, stimulating reflection on the characteristics of leadership, and then worked together to build a shared image. In another exercise, the group prepared a meeting with companies, practicing the skills of leadership, group collaboration, and public speaking.
Final Results
By the end of the workshop cycle, the and participants have acquired skills in leadership, communication e teamwork. Among the most notable results, significant improvement was noted in the ability to communicate in public and in taking responsibility as a leader in the group. In addition, a greater awareness of one’s abilities, talents and potential was developed.
Another important aspect was the program’s hands-on approach, which allowed them to apply what they learned to real-life situations. The project stimulated interest in active participation, capitalizing on the hands-on experience of the project ELoGE (European Label of Governance Excellence), in which the Municipality of Reana del Rojale participated in 2023.
Calendar
The meetings, of two hours each, were held on the following dates:
- 1st Meeting: September 23, 2024
- 2nd Meeting: September 30, 2024
- 3rd Meeting: October 7, 2024
- 4th Meeting: October 14, 2024
- 5th Meeting: October 21, 2024
The series of workshops provided an important opportunity for growth for all involved, who were able to acquire key skills for their future, preparing them to face challenges in the educational, professional and civic spheres with greater awareness and confidence.
