In 2024, a group of organisations from Denmark, Spain, and Italy, led by FireAID, identified a critical challenge in the youth sector: many successful organisations rely too heavily on their founders and struggle to transfer leadership to the next generation . We aimed to address this "founder's dilemma" and the need for practical skills in digital management, strategic planning, and leadership transition. In response, we decided to join forces and create Sustainable Youth Organisations (SYO), an online platform of free resources designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of youth organisations.
Unlike traditional courses, the SYO platform is built on a unique, hands-on methodology combining project-based learning and active mentorship. The platform doesn't just provide videos; it guides experienced leaders (mentors) and next-generation leaders (mentees) through a shared process of co-creating real-world strategic plans and process improvements for their own organisations. This practical approach aims to build the confidence and transfer the "unwritten knowledge" necessary for a smooth and successful leadership transition, empowering organisations to thrive for years to come.
This platform is a joint initiative of:
Fireaid is an international non-profit organization dedicated to building a resilient and inclusive society by improving the capacity of vulnerable groups to recover from disasters like fires and floods. The organization conducts research, develops educational materials, organizes training, and runs awareness campaigns. In the youth sector, fireaid is deeply committed to empowering young people through initiatives such as its Youth Emergency Preparedness Workshops and a Youth Leadership Development Program, which provide hands-on training in survival skills, first aid, and disaster response
Fondazione Siamo Mediterraneo (FSM) is an Italian foundation established in 2018 to promote the social inclusion of vulnerable people, including women, children, minorities, and displaced persons. The organization is heavily engaged in supporting youth facing social vulnerability, running initiatives like the "Centro Polifunzionale per Minori," which provides educational support and recreational activities for children and adolescents. FSM also focuses on the integration of young migrants by offering language training, legal assistance, and educational orientation.
EuroBomberos is a non-profit organization founded in 2018 by Spanish firefighters with a mission to empower professional and volunteer firefighters as agents of social change. A key part of their work involves engaging young people through their Youth Fire Brigade, which trains 32 fire cadets in emergency response, firefighting, and disaster resilience. The association utilizes innovative approaches like gamified learning experiences and peer-to-peer education programs to make emergency preparedness more accessible and relatable for youth audiences.
Neptelia is a specialized Spanish SME, founded in 2011, that focuses on supporting organizational development through innovation. They provide services in innovation strategy, organizational change management, and digital transformation to clients in over 20 countries. Neptelia has a strong track record in designing and delivering training programs, such as their "Leadership Evolution" course, which helps equip emerging leaders from SMEs and non-profits with the skills needed to navigate growth and digital