Bucharest, Romania – Twenty-five youth workers and youth information professionals from eight European countries gathered in Bucharest between 19–25 July 2026 for the international JIMMY – Youth Information Mediator training course, jointly organised by the National Youth Foundation (FNT) and ERYICA – the European Youth Information and Counselling Agency, within the framework of FNT's Erasmus+ Accreditation. The course followed the official ERYICA curriculum and combined European quality standards with practical, non-formal learning.
Hosted at The Youth by FNT, the programme addressed one of the growing challenges facing the youth sector: ensuring that young people have access to reliable, independent and high-quality information in an increasingly complex digital environment.
Unlike many training opportunities in the youth field, JIMMY goes beyond introducing participants to youth information work. It prepares them to become Youth Information Mediators - professionals capable of helping young people navigate information critically, identify trustworthy sources, make informed decisions and access opportunities available at local, national and European levels. The concept is built on strengthening cooperation between youth workers and youth information services, ultimately improving the support offered to young people.
Throughout five intensive training days, participants explored the foundations of quality youth information, the principles and values defined by the European Youth Information Charter, communication and counselling techniques, adolescent development, information needs across different generations, critical evaluation of information, and practical methods for supporting young people through informed decision-making. The course combined expert input with simulations, role plays, peer learning, reflection exercises and action planning, reflecting ERYICA's emphasis on experiential, non-formal education.
A particular focus of this edition was the rapidly evolving information landscape shaped by digital platforms and artificial intelligence. Participants discussed how youth workers can continue to build trust, promote media and information literacy, and ensure that young people receive accurate, ethical and accessible information despite increasingly sophisticated online environments.
Beyond the learning programme itself, the week created a valuable space for international exchange. Professionals working in youth centres, NGOs, municipalities and educational institutions shared practices from their respective countries, explored common challenges and built new partnerships that will continue beyond the training.
The course also carried significant professional recognition. Participants who successfully completed the programme received both a Youthpass Certificate, issued under Erasmus+, and the official ERYICA JIMMY Certificate, recognising them as qualified Youth Information Mediators within the European ERYICA network. This dual certification reflects not only participation in an international mobility project but also recognised competence in youth information work at European level.
By hosting the JIMMY course, the National Youth Foundation reinforces its commitment to strengthening youth work in Romania and contributing to the professionalisation of the youth information sector through European cooperation. Organised within the framework of the Foundation's Erasmus+ Accreditation and in partnership with ERYICA, the initiative reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that every young person has access to trustworthy information, informed guidance and meaningful opportunities to participate actively in society.
