A social work student's perspective on the daily life of youth work
I am Sigrid, a 30-year-old social work student from Tallinn University of Applied Sciences. This spring, I completed an internship at the Tartu Youth Work Centre, where I directly experienced working with young people and saw the crucial role youth work plays in supporting the well-being of children and families. During the internship, I actively participated in both daily activities at youth centers and larger events. One of the most memorable experiences was definitely participating in the organization of a city camp – it [...].
The Enterprising Youth Centre Label – More Than an Award
There are rarely quiet moments at the Anne Youth Center. Young people gather there, some more motivated than others, but all looking for a place to try out their ideas – whether it be organizing events, participating in projects, or simply discussing life with each other. That is why it seemed natural to participate in the new pilot program of the Estonian Association of Open Youth Centers, through which […]
Role-playing games – a game in our minds
A month or two ago, thanks to the initiative of a new young person, we started Role-Playing Fridays in Ilmatsalu, where role-playing games (RPGs) (e.g., Dungeons & Dragons (D&D)) are played. In the English-speaking world, role-playing games have captivated players for decades, offering a unique blend of storytelling, strategy, and creativity. As I had just discovered D&D myself at that time, I was very happy to embark on this new adventure in the Estonian [...]
Internship Experience at Tartu Youth Work Centre
I am Karde Mirell Pilk, a 22-year-old from Tartu and a first-year business management student at Võrumaa Education and Technology Centre. When I started studying business management, I knew I wanted more than just lecture halls and textbook pages – I wanted to see how knowledge truly comes to life. I came to the Tartu Youth Work Centre for my internship with this very idea – to explore how the public sector operates from within and to see what goes on […]
Sexual health – awareness that supports safe and healthy development
Addressing sexual health topics is an important part of every young person's development. This means not only knowledge about body development but also understanding relationships, boundaries, consent, self-esteem, and safety. Studies show that young people who have received age-appropriate sexual education are able to make more informed and safer decisions and are more confident in seeking help when needed (UNESCO, 2018). It is important to start teaching sexual health already [...]
Awaiting the Youth Work Camp Summer!
As spring arrives, the inboxes of Tartu Youth Work Center employees receive more and more messages asking, “When does the application period for the youth work camp begin?” Our own anticipation for the upcoming youth work camp summer is already high! This year, we will kick off the youth work camp summer on June 16th with a traditional opening event, and we will conclude the youth work camp summer from August 12th-14th at the national youth work camp gathering at Ranna Ranch. Those who have attended a youth work camp know that in addition to work experience […].
Interview with unicorn Gerdi
As part of the winter ball held at Lille House, there was also a unicorn disco for young people. After the disco, we caught the unicorn and asked him a few questions. Greete: “Let's start with the first question. Where are you from?”Unicorn Gert: “I, I am from Tallinn, a cold place, a dreadful, imagination-free fashion city.”Greete: “Are there many like you there?”Unicorn Gert: “Rather not, we don't even have cows there, but the biggest unicorns […]
Learning mobility to Malta
At the beginning of March, we packed our bags and, together with our team, headed to Malta for a study trip. We discovered how young people are supported in this sunny Mediterranean country. Our study trip focused on Aġenzija Żgħażagħi, a non-profit organization that plays a significant role in supporting and developing young people in Malta. We gained an inspiring experience – meetings with passionate youth workers, in-depth discussions about youth work methods, and the opportunity to see how practical solutions shape the future of young people. […]
Winter break at Tartu Youth Work Center
During the last winter break, young people enjoyed a meaningful and diverse week, filled with creative crafting, digital games, and sports activities. The program, put together by youth workers, offered young people both fun and development opportunities in various fields. The opening day of the week was dedicated to free-form activities and creative pursuits. All centers offered a variety of distinctive workshops. For example, at Annelinn and Anneke, a guest offered activities where participants could together […]
How many good people can fit... endlessly?
Spring is a time of new beginnings, and it has somehow become clear that the approach of spring and a restless spirit bring more and more young people to the youth center. Compared to the rest of the year's dark and cold period, the end of winter and beginning of spring have seen one and a half to two times more young people in the Lille youth room. However, our walls are not made of rubber, and we can only admire with a touch of envy the Anne youth center's […].