For the latest cohort, the learning course journey began in 2025 in Denmark, when the group of 25 young participants from across Africa first met for the intensive course. Here, they were introduced to the framework of the SDGs and challenged to translate global ambitions into practical action within their own contexts in action plans for implementation in their own countries.

Developing action plans and networking across borders
After the in-person training in Denmark and their return to their home countries, their work continued online through the Youth Sounding Board (YSB) - a network of young leaders from Danida partner countries that work closely with Danish embassies to bring youth perspectives into development cooperation and policy dialogue. Through this network, participants developed their action plans, exchanged experiences across countries, and continuously applied their learning in their local communities.

Democracy in action at Folkemødet
While in Denmark, the group also participated in Folkemødet, a living democracy festival in Denmark where politicians, citizens, organisations, businesses and young people meet in open public dialogue. For many participants, it was their first experience of a democracy festival on such a scale in practice and many were inspired by the openness of the discussions and the active role young people played in the public debate. It sparked ideas about creating similar spaces in their own countries to strengthen youth participation and civic engagement.

Democracy in action at Folkemødet
Later, the group travelled back to Denmark to participate in the public dialogue festival Folkemødet and encountered yet a very different setting. Folkemødet is a living democracy festival where politicians, citizens, organisations, businesses, and young people meet in open public dialogue. For many participants, it was their first experience of democracy on such a scale in practice and many were inspired by the openness of discussion and the active role young people played in public debate. It sparked ideas about creating similar spaces in their own countries to strengthen youth participation and civic engagement.

Turning knowledge into action
Across the entire journey, the focus has remained the same, turning knowledge into action. Participants have strengthened their skills in advocacy, facilitation and development work while building strong networks across Africa and Europe.

However, right now, their journey is not yet over. The participants are back in their home communities actively working on their action plans, now better equipped to influence decision-making and translate the Sustainable Development Goals into real world impact.

The long-term ambition of the programme is not simply to increase awareness of the SDGs, but to strengthen a network of young changemakers capable of influencing SDG implementation at local, national, and regional levels. Through their action plans, the Youth Sounding Board members are already working to address challenges in their communities.

The journey continues
We hope to see participants continue to strengthen youth participation in decision-making processes, build partnerships across sectors, and use the SDGs as a practical framework for advocacy and development. Ultimately, the programme seeks to contribute to a growing movement of young leaders who are not only committed to sustainable development, but who also possess the skills, networks and confidence needed to turn global commitments into tangible local action.

Looking ahead, the Youth Sounding Board will continue building on the momentum generated through the programme to advance youth-led SDG implementation and influence. Particular emphasis will be placed on supporting participants in implementing their action plans, strengthening youth-led advocacy, and expanding opportunities for young leaders from developing countries to contribute to decision-making processes related to the SDGs and the commitments outlined in the UN Pact for the Future.

Since 2023, 95 youth leaders have participated in the “Empowerment of Youth to Influence SDG Implementation” training course implemented by 2030Beyond.