by Bence Vivien, Communication Specialist at Egyesek Youth Association
When people from five different countries come together with a shared purpose - to make their communities stronger - something truly meaningful begins to take shape. This is the essence of APERO, a European cooperation project connecting grassroots organizations from Germany, Spain, Hungary, Bulgaria, and Serbia. Though our local realities differ, we are united by a common vision: empowering young people, fostering participation, and strengthening community resilience across Europe.
As a communication specialist at Egyesek Youth Association, I had the opportunity to take part in a job-shadowing experience in Berlin, hosted by CitizensLab, alongside a colleague from Spain representing de Amicitia. The week offered not only a space for professional exchange and learning but also a platform to share my own insights and practices from Egyesek - particularly on how communication can connect, inspire, and engage young people.
CitizensLab is a living network of changemakers from across Europe who work together to reimagine democracy, participation, and care. Founded in 2016 and now a registered NGO in Berlin, CitizensLab brings together activists, community organizers, artists, and innovators experimenting with new ways of living, working, and communicating within their local contexts.
During the job-shadowing period, I had the chance to present Egyesek’s communication approach: how we develop strategies that resonate with young audiences, use storytelling and digital platforms to build communities, and create safe spaces for meaningful dialogue. The exchange also highlighted how much we can learn simply by sharing - by listening to different perspectives, reflecting on our own, and finding common ground despite our varied contexts.
What impressed me most at CitizensLab was their holistic understanding of communication - an approach that brings together intellect, emotion, and presence. Meetings reminded me that communication is not merely about delivering messages; it’s about cultivating empathy, understanding, and connection.
Across the projects we discussed - whether in Germany, Spain, or Hungary - one message was clear: dialogue transforms communities. It strengthens relationships, nurtures creativity, and builds resilience in ways that go beyond words.
I returned home with new perspectives, practical tools, and renewed energy for my work at Egyesek. The experience deepened my understanding of communication within the youth field - not simply as information sharing, but as a process of building participation, trust, and belonging.
The APERO job-shadowing experience in Berlin reminded me that communication, at its best, is an act of collaboration and care. It connects people, empowers voices, and creates bridges - both locally and across borders.
