Young people across Serbia are stepping up to become leaders in their communities and address issues of public concern. Through the Youth Empowerment Support (YES) Project, EWMI and its partners, National Coalition for Decentralization and Common Ground Consulting, are helping make this possible by equipping emerging leaders with the skills, confidence, and networks they need to drive positive change.
One program, the YES LEAD Academy brought together a new generation of young leaders from across the country for an intensive leadership development program focused on personal growth, civic engagement, and community impact.
The seven-day academy, held in Niš in July 2024, gathered 17 selected participants aged 18–30 who took part in interactive workshops, discussions, and leadership training designed to strengthen their skills and confidence.
The program focused on key concepts, including storytelling and advocacy, project development, public speaking, trust-building, and youth leadership. After completing the Academy, participants continued their leadership journey through a three-month internship program in civil society organizations across Serbia, gaining practical experience in fields such as human rights, environmental advocacy, media, and youth work.
The program produced strong results, as several interns became leaders in their home organizations, many participants secured employment, and all remained actively engaged in their communities.
The impact — both personal and professional — of participation in the LEAD Academy was emphasized by numerous participants, one of whom shared: “I believe the LEAD Serbia Program will have a significant impact on both my personal and professional development. Personally, it will enhance my leadership skills, boost my confidence, and help me connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference. Professionally, I expect the program to equip me with practical tools and knowledge that will enable me to contribute more effectively to environmental policy and sustainability efforts in Serbia. Overall, it will be a transformative experience that will shape my future endeavors.”
Another participant highlighted how the LEAD Academy approach led them to new personal insights into and how those insights had informed their professional approach: “On a personal level, I learned some new things about myself and became more motivated for what I do and what I fight for. I additionally dealt with my values, fears, insecurities, things that move me so that I better understand where I am in life and what I want to do next. On a professional level, I gained an idea of how I work best in a team, i.e. what kind of role I want to have, and I improved my speaking skills.”
When asked how they would apply what they learned in the LEAD Academy to demonstrate active leadership going forward, one participant shared: “Following the LEAD training, I plan to demonstrate active leadership in my community by advocating for gender equality and the rights of young people. I will initiate and lead projects that promote better education and create an inclusive society where everyone’s voice is heard. My focus will be on empowering others to act, fostering a community where young people feel encouraged and supported to pursue positive change. By leading with empathy, consistency, and a genuine commitment to making a difference, I aim to inspire others to actively contribute to our collective growth and well-being.”
Another participant shared that the experience and lessons from the LEAD Academy would inform their approach to their life and role in society every day: “Now I am always looking for an opportunity to help others, to engage, to listen to their problems and struggles, to show empathy and to make a plan of action for going forward in the future so their lives can be better.”
As participants return to their communities equipped with new skills, confidence, and networks, they are already turning ideas into action and inspiring others to get involved. The Academy proved that investing in young people’s leadership skills can create long-term impact—not only for participants but also for the communities they serve.
Through programs like the YES LEAD Academy, the YES Project builds a growing network of youth leaders committed to strengthening civic participation and democratic values across Serbia.