Youth are more than just voices of the future, they are key players in today’s urban development.
The Our City Plans initiative recognizes this and places youth at the forefront of sustainable urban development. But how can young changemakers and youth-led organizations harness this power to make a real impact? The answer lies in the Our City Plans toolbox, a dynamic resource designed to empower young leaders to take the reins of their communities' futures.
The Our City Plans toolbox is more than just a set of guidelines, it's a catalyst for action. It provides young leaders and youth-led organizations with the tools they need to engage their communities, influence urban planning processes, and ensure that the voices of young people are heard loud and clear. With this toolbox, young leaders can gather critical data, assess local challenges, and develop strategies that align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
How can youth use the toolbox? : Practical Steps
Community Surveys: The toolbox includes templates and resources for conducting community surveys, enabling youth organizations to gather vital data on land use and urban growth. This data can then be used to advocate for more inclusive and efficient urban planning.
Workshops and Trainings: Youth-led organizations can organize workshops using the toolbox’s training modules, educating their peers and community members on the importance of sustainable urban development and how to actively participate in the planning process.
Policy Advocacy: With the insights gained from the toolbox, youth can engage with local governments and stakeholders, advocating for policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of the younger generation. The toolbox provides guidance on how to effectively communicate and lobby for change.
Digital Engagement: In today’s digital age, the Our City Plans toolbox also offers tools for online campaigns and social media engagement, helping youth organizations to mobilize support, raise awareness, and amplify their impact beyond local boundaries.
An example of the toolbox's effectiveness is the Bijagós 2030 Plan in Guinea-Bissau. This initiative demonstrates how youth and local stakeholders can use the toolbox to address urban and environmental challenges through a participatory and data-driven approach. Read more about this case study here.
The Our City Plans toolbox is a powerful resource for youth-led organizations, enabling them to take proactive roles in shaping their cities' futures. By leveraging its tools, young leaders can create cities that are engaging, participatory, comprehensive. The future of urban development is bright with youth-driven innovation.
Are you ready to make a difference?