Creative Youth Information Award category

“Shaping Futures in Aphrodisias: Youth Creativity Meets European Opportunities”

Title of the Project

“Shaping Futures in Aphrodisias: Youth Creativity Meets European Opportunities”

Organisation

AYDIN GOVERNORSHIP

WEBSITE

https://www.aydin.gov.tr

Project link

https://www.instagram.com/eurodesk.aydin/

Project dates

November 16, 2025

2025-12-31

What is it about?

“Aphrodisias: Shaping the Future with Inspiration from the Past” is an innovative, youth-led communication project implemented by the Eurodesk Aydın Governorship Contact Point to increase awareness and participation in European opportunities among young people aged 13–30 in Aydın, Türkiye. The project uses the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aphrodisias as a creative narrative tool, transforming local cultural heritage into a gateway for European mobility. By drawing a strong parallel between ancient sculptors shaping marble and young people shaping their futures, the project effectively challenges the perception that international opportunities are unattainable. Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps are presented as realistic and accessible pathways when supported by accurate information and guidance.

The project was fully designed, produced, and presented by the Eurodesk Aydın Volunteer Youth Team, ensuring strong peer-to-peer communication, authenticity, and youth ownership. Instead of a traditional informational format, a storytelling-based short video was created, reimagining a historical site as a space for youth inspiration and future-building. The project strongly aligns with the Creative Youth theme by positioning young people as content creators and storytellers. It also supports EU Green Priorities through paperless digital dissemination and by promoting environmentally conscious European mobility programmes. Beyond awareness-raising, the project delivers measurable impact by motivating young people to directly engage with the Eurodesk Contact Point and take active steps toward European participation.

(NOTE: Although marked “finished” in the form, the project is ongoing as the first phase of a 12-city initiative (in Aydın) with 12 different themes, which will be completed by June. The video was uploaded to YouTube for the form this week. It is mainly shown in trainings and workshops to draw the attention of young people. Sustainability and visibility measures are planned afterward.)

How is this project relevant to the specific category?

This initiative strongly corresponds to the Creative Youth Information thematic category by rethinking both how youth information is delivered and who creates it. Instead of using a traditional informational format, the project transforms youth information into a creative storytelling experience that connects cultural heritage, visual metaphor and future-oriented guidance. The project uses the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aphrodisias as a narrative and visual framework, creatively linking the ancient art of sculpture with young people’s personal development and future planning. By replacing standard explanations with symbolic language—such as shaping dreams like marble—the initiative makes complex European opportunities more engaging, memorable and emotionally accessible for young audiences.

Creativity is also reflected in the reinterpretation of space and time. A historical site is presented as a source of contemporary youth inspiration, breaking away from conventional office-based or classroom-centred youth information practices. This contrast between ancient surroundings and modern European opportunities captures attention and increases information retention.

Most importantly, the project embodies creative youth information through youth ownership. The concept, script, narration and production were carried out by the Eurodesk Aydın Volunteer Youth Team. Young people are not passive recipients of information but active creators, storytellers and multipliers. This peer-to-peer approach strengthens authenticity and trust, allowing information to be delivered in a language and tone that resonates with the target group.

By combining creative storytelling, youth-led production and innovative use of cultural heritage, the initiative presents youth information not as a list of facts, but as an inspiring and empowering experience—fully aligned with the principles of Creative Youth Information.

What was the impact of the project?

The project created a multidimensional impact on young people and the local community by addressing motivation, access to information, and active participation. Its most immediate impact was breaking the widespread perception among young people that participating in European mobility programmes is difficult or unattainable. Through relatable storytelling and peer-to-peer communication, the project increased young people’s self-confidence and willingness to explore opportunities such as Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps. By using Aphrodisias—a local UNESCO World Heritage Site—as the main narrative element, the project strengthened young people’s sense of cultural belonging and pride. Local heritage was reframed not only as a historical asset, but as a starting point for international engagement, helping young people connect their local identity with a broader European perspective. A key factor in the project’s success was that it was entirely created by Eurodesk volunteer youth. Seeing their peers design, narrate, and present the project captured the attention of other young people and made the message more credible and motivating. This peer-led approach reinforced the idea that European opportunities are achievable and relevant for everyone. The project also had a tangible community impact by increasing direct engagement with the Eurodesk Aydın Contact Point. After the dissemination of the video and its use in trainings and workshops, more young people actively sought guidance, asked questions about mobility programmes, and participated in information sessions. Overall, the project went beyond awareness-raising to foster confidence, cultural connection, and active engagement, contributing to a more informed, motivated, and participatory youth community at local level.

Did the project have any green focus?

Yes, the project integrated a green focus and eco-friendly measures both in its implementation and messaging. All promotional and informational activities were carried out digitally through a short video, eliminating the need for printed materials such as brochures, posters, or flyers. This paperless approach helped reduce waste and minimise the project’s carbon footprint. The project also promoted sustainability through content by highlighting a UNESCO World Heritage Site and emphasising the importance of protecting cultural and natural heritage for future generations. In addition, the video encouraged young people to explore Erasmus+ and European Solidarity Corps opportunities, which actively promote environmental awareness and support green travel options. By combining digital dissemination, cultural heritage awareness, and alignment with EU green priorities, the project adopted an environmentally responsible approach while delivering youth information in a creative and sustainable way.

How did you ensure Eurodesk's visibility in your project?

Eurodesk’s visibility was ensured through clear and consistent integration throughout the project. The Eurodesk name, logo, and Contact Point identity were prominently featured in the video, visuals, and closing call-to-action. The narrative positioned Eurodesk as the main bridge between young people and European opportunities. The video was actively used as an opening tool in Eurodesk trainings and workshops to capture attention and create curiosity. This approach helped engage young people from the first moment and strengthened recognition of Eurodesk as a reliable youth information source.

Project highlights

https://www.instagram.com/eurodesk.aydin/

Your project on video

https://youtu.be/7lxFWg5k9fg