NURTURE – National support points launched to empower youth and strengthen NGOs across the region

NURTURE – National support points launched to empower youth and strengthen NGOs across the region

A new initiative opens doors for career development and hands-on opportunities for young people in Albania, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In an effort to create lasting opportunities for young people and strengthen the capacity of the NGO sector, three National Support Points (NSPs) have been established in Albania, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina as part of the NURTURE Project. These NSPs represent an important step in fostering youth development and empowering future leaders through mentorship, career counselling, and practical apprenticeship experiences within NGOs.

Supported by the Erasmus+ program and coordinated by PiNA (Slovenia) in collaboration with regional partners from Western Balkan countries – BRAVO (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Mladiinfo Montenegro (Montenegro), LDA Europe (Albania), and CKM Dubrovnik (Croatia) – this initiative seeks to bridge the gap between young people pursuing professional growth and NGOs eager to nurture the next generation of changemakers.

The NSPs provide young people aged 18–30 with access to career counselling, capacity-building activities, and opportunities to engage with experienced mentors. Through these services, participants are guided to explore potential career pathways, gain valuable insights into the non-governmental sector, and build the confidence and leadership skills needed for success.

The establishment of the NSPs represents a milestone in enhancing both youth employability and the NGO ecosystem. It offers an amazing opportunity for young people to develop their skills in a practical, supportive environment while making a meaningful impact.

A key feature of the NSPs is the implementation of the Apprenticeship Model – a structured, hands-on program that connects young participants with NGOs for practical learning experiences. This model enables apprentices to gain practical work experience by actively participating in NGO operations, develop professional skills such as project management, communication, and teamwork, benefit from mentorship provided by experienced professionals within the NGO sector, and explore career pathways in a supportive and progressive learning environment. The Apprenticeship Model also features an exciting contest in each Western Balkan country, where apprentices and their hosting NGOs are invited to propose innovative projects, actions, or campaigns that address pressing societal challenges. The best ideas will receive funding to bring their solutions to life, fostering meaningful local impact and strengthening the collaboration between youth and NGOs.

In addition to the Apprenticeship Model, two additional toolboxes have been developed to further support the growth and success of young people and NGOs. The Career Counselling Toolbox equips counselors with techniques to guide young individuals in exploring their potential, identifying career goals, and building job-seeking skills, such as crafting CVs and cover letters and preparing for interviews. Through structured sessions and interactive methods, it empowers youth to approach their career paths with clarity and confidence.

Meanwhile, the Mentoring Guide Toolbox serves as a comprehensive resource for mentors, providing best practices, structured feedback methods, and principles of effective communication. Designed to foster meaningful mentor-apprentice relationships, it ensures that apprentices receive guidance, constructive feedback, and opportunities for professional growth within NGOs. Together, these resources offer an all-around approach to empowering youth and strengthening NGOs through mentorship and career development.

By progressively taking on more complex tasks and receiving consistent feedback, participants build confidence and leadership capabilities while making meaningful contributions to NGO initiatives.

Since their establishment, the NSPs have already made significant progress in empowering young people and NGOs alike. Young people across Albania, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina have actively participated in personalized career counselling sessions, receiving guidance to navigate their professional futures. Training sessions have been conducted to equip NGOs with the skills and resources needed to mentor apprentices effectively. Additionally, workshops on mentoring techniques and NGO best practices are enabling both youth and organizations to collaborate productively.

With the NSPs now fully operational, the NURTURE Project invites young people and NGOs to get involved. For youth, applications are open for the apprenticeship program, offering a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience, grow professionally, and make a positive impact. Apply Here

For NGOs, this is a chance to partner with NSPs to mentor young talent while benefiting from fresh perspectives and enthusiasm.

This is an opportunity not to be missed. We encourage all young people eager to learn and all NGOs ready to guide them to join us in building a stronger, more capable community.

For more information about the NSPs and how to get involved, visit the NURTURE Project’s social media:

• Facebook: Nurture E+
• Instagram: @nurture_eu

or contact your local NSP:

• Email: info.nsp@ldaeurope.com
• Website: www.ldaeurope.com
• Instagram: @lda_europe

Together, we can nurture the potential of today’s youth for a stronger, brighter tomorrow.

The NSPs are made possible through the collaborative efforts of several regional and international partners, including LDA Europe (Albania), BRAVO (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Mladiinfo Montenegro (Montenegro), and CKM Dubrovnik (Croatia). The initiative is supported by the Erasmus+ program, reflecting the European Union’s commitment to empowering youth and fostering sustainable community development.

Disclaimer:

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.