Youth Exchange 'Generation of Green Innovation' 04-12 May 2026, Krushevo, North Macedonia

Generation of Green Innovation: Youth Collaboration for a Sustainable Future by Annisa Putri Zauhara

Environmental problems have become one of the biggest challenges faced by the modern world today. Issues such as pollution, climate change, excessive waste, and overconsumption continue to increase in many countries. These problems do not only affect nature, but also influence people’s quality of life, health, and future opportunities. Because of this, many young people are beginning to realize the importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility. One example of this awareness can be seen through the Erasmus+ youth exchange project Generation of Green Innovation, which was held from 4–12 May 2026 in Kruševo, North Macedonia. The project gathered participants from several countries, including Italy, Romania, Spain, Türkiye, and North Macedonia. The main purpose of the program was to encourage young people to become more environmentally conscious while also developing entrepreneurial skills and intercultural understanding. Throughout the project, participants joined workshops, teamwork activities, discussions, business simulations, and cultural exchanges designed to improve both personal and professional development. The first days of the program focused on building connections between participants. Since everyone came from different cultural backgrounds, the organizers prepared many energizers and ice-breaking activities to help participants feel comfortable with one another. Games such as Eco Human Bingo and Dance Leader created a fun atmosphere and encouraged communication among participants. These simple activities were very important because they helped reduce awkwardness and build trust within the group. Besides indoor activities, participants were also asked to explore the city of Kruševo in international teams. During the city challenge, groups needed to complete several tasks, including speaking with local people, tasting traditional food, taking creative photographs, and recording short promotional videos. Through this experience, participants improved their teamwork and communication skills while also learning more about the local culture and traditions of North Macedonia. Another important topic discussed during the project was sustainability and eco- entrepreneurship. Participants learned about the three pillars of sustainability: people, planet, and profit. The discussions explained that businesses should not only focus on making money, but also consider social and environmental impacts. Many participants shared examples of environmental challenges from their own countries, such as plastic pollution, fast fashion waste, and air pollution. These conversations helped everyone understand that environmental problems are global issues that require international cooperation and innovative solutions. One of the most interesting parts of the project was the workshop sessions created by participants themselves. Different groups organized workshops about digital tools, branding, critical thinking, negotiation, and communication. During the Google tools workshop, participants learned how to use Google Sheets and Google Slides effectively. Another workshop focused on Canva and branding, where participants created logos, posters, and visual identities for fictional businesses. These activities improved creativity while also teaching practical digital skills that can be useful in education and future careers. The negotiation workshop was also highly interactive. Participants practiced both verbal and non verbal communication through simulations and debates. They learned how to present ideas confidently, defend arguments, and cooperate with others in order to find solutions. These skills are especially important for entrepreneurship and leadership because successful communication plays a major role in teamwork and business development. As the project continued, participants were divided into teams to create eco-business ideas. Each team developed a business concept connected to sustainability, such as recycled fashion, eco- friendly bookstores, water filter companies, coffee shops, eco-festivals, and animal shelters. The teams used the Business Model Canvas to organize their ideas and prepare presentations. They also created promotional materials, including logos and business posters, within a limited amount of time. At the end of the session, every group presented their eco-business idea in front of the other participants. Each presentation lasted five minutes and included interactive explanations about the business concept, environmental impact, and future potential. The presentations showed how creativity and sustainability can work together in developing innovative business solutions. The Animal Shelter project eventually became the winning presentation because it successfully combined emotional value with sustainable goals. The project was not only focused on business and workshops, but also on community involvement and environmental action. During Community Day, some participants traveled to Ohrid while others stayed in Kruševo to join activities related to recycling and environmental awareness. Participants discussed waste management issues, environmental responsibility, and how local communities can contribute to protecting nature. This experience reminded participants that sustainability begins from small daily actions and community participation. Intercultural learning also became one of the strongest aspects of the program. Throughout the project, participants shared food, music, dances, traditions, and stories from their own countries during intercultural nights. These activities helped participants appreciate diversity and develop mutual respect. Even though everyone came from different backgrounds, the project showed that young people can work together and build friendships through cooperation and open-mindedness. Overall, Generation of Green Innovation became more than just a youth exchange program. It provided participants with valuable experiences, practical skills, international friendships, and a deeper understanding of sustainability. The project successfully encouraged young people to think creatively, act responsibly, and become more aware of their role in creating a better future. Through collaboration, innovation, and environmental awareness, the participants demonstrated that small actions from young generations can contribute to meaningful positive change in society.