As part of the YOUnite project, our Austrian partner, ÖSB, organized a series of six impactful training days this past June. Though we’re a bit late in sharing, the experience was too valuable to keep to ourselves!

ÖSB encountered significant challenges in engaging youth to participate in the training program. One of the primary difficulties was inviting young people without appearing prejudiced or offensive. To address this, ÖSB reached out to numerous schools and promoted the pilot opportunity in public spaces, such as libraries. Additionally, they collaborated with Hilfswerk to tap into its extensive network for youth outreach.

However, the initial title of the training program did not resonate with potential participants, making it less inviting for youth. To overcome this hurdle, ÖSB partnered with the non-profit organization itworks, which specializes in engaging youth on the fringes of the labour market. This collaboration proved to be highly successful, resulting in a pilot training that delivered substantial value to vulnerable youth struggling with low self-esteem and in need of employment guidance.

The final training, focusing on life chances and healthy habits, brought together a group of young men from the Ausbildungsfit DoIt program, who are navigating various educational challenges. Recognizing the importance of well-being, healthy habits and reducing stress in educational and job seeking situations our trainers guided the youth through various engaging activities.

What truly made the workshop stand out was the hands-on approach in the kitchen. While each day began with activities using scissors, drawing, youth engaged in role plays or discussions, a very central element of the training was the joint lunch preparations. The participants, a group of 9-12 young men, then went shopping together for ingredients, checked sugar content and learnt to navigate in the shop, after which they collaborated in the kitchen.

For many, this was a new experience, but it quickly became a favorite part of the day. Even those who were not accustomed to helping out in the kitchen found their niche, learning new skills and gaining confidence. The camaraderie that developed as they prepared and presented their meals was remarkable, with each decorative plate earning admiration and boosting self-esteem.

One participant shared, “”Cooking was good, I’ll definitely use the healthy and delicious recipes in my daily life. The conversation about what not to do in job applications was helpful.”

Kochen war gut und das Gespräch, was wir nicht tun sollten (Bewerbung). Es hat kein Thema gefehlt. Die Trainer haben alles gut beigebracht und hergezeigt. Ich werde sich noch die gesunden & leckeren Rezepte in meinem Alltag einbringen.”

This workshop was more than just an event—it was a step towards empowering these young individuals to lead healthier, more mindful lives. We’re proud of the progress made and look forward to continuing this journey together.

Presentation about the pilot training in Vienna