Announcing the Theme for YES 2023

On the 9th of December 2022 in the cold and gloomy Brussels, ten bright minds got together to brainstorm the next YES. With much anticipation, excitement, and curiosity, they sat at the table, got their flipcharts and laptops ready, and… YES 2023, here we go!

This initial meeting was an important occasion for the Core team to discuss the theme of the event, come up with key elements, goals, and pilot projects. And here it comes, the final result of the three-day brainstorm:

The official theme of the YES 2023 is “Building resilient minds - from idea to impact.”

What does this mean? Well, this year we will take a closer look at different aspects of mental health and well-being for young people living in an exceedingly-demanding and fast-paced world. The participants will learn how to find their personal road for success and set healthy boundaries. And because we want to make an impact in the world, they will also strive to bring these changes to their local communities through grassroots projects which they will develop right on the spot, at the YES.

To help their teams design the best possible project, participants will be able to specialise in one of the following skills: team leadership, project design, public speaking, or project management.

On the last day they will present their project in front of a jury, and the best project will receive a special prize. Yes, you read that right – the event will culminate in a social hackathon, a new concept at the YES! What does that mean and how will it change the way participants learn at the YES? You will find out more in our next podcast episode coming out at the end of January. Stay tuned!