As the heart of European politics, Brussels offers a unique stage for dialogue, learning, and connection. In 2024, the ‘European Know-How Transfer (EUKHT)’ brought once again together 35 JCI members from across the EU-countries, as well as Brazil, Serbia and Switzerland to engage with the European Union’s institutions and leaders. This program serves as a vital platform for fostering understanding, collaboration, and the development of impactful leadership skills.
An Engaging and Comprehensive Programme
This year’s EUKHT theme, “Empowering Young Leaders: A Vision for Europe’s Future,” aimed to inspire our participants to take ownership of Europe’s future and engage with European decision-makers and stakeholders to collectively work towards a better Europe. The event featured a thoughtfully curated supporting program designed to enrich participants’ knowledge and broaden their perspectives. The program included:
– Expert Presentations
Participants gained valuable insights into the mechanics of lobbying and the nuances of diplomacy, equipping them with practical tools to amplify their voices in policymaking.
Additionally they learned about the European Parliament and its institutions as Employer to better understand the organisational structure.
– JCI Europe Briefing
A concise presentation presentation on the structure and activities of JCI Europe ensured that all participants had an in-depth knowledge of the association. This included the Declaration of Human Duties for Leaders, the #4AreasOfOpportunities, the “CYE” competition and more to give participants ideas for further local, national and international engagement if not already known. The presentation also emphasized our commitment to developing young leaders who are driving positive change across the continent.
– Position Debates
Through structured discussions on JCI Europe’s positions, participants honed their advocacy and critical thinking skills, essential qualities for influencing policy and driving meaningful initiatives.
The JCI Europe Positions can be found here.
– Warm Welcome from distiguished Hosts
Siegfried Murasan, Member of the European Parliament (MEP) was again the patron of the EUKHT event.
We were honored to be welcomed and supported by him. In his opening speech he presented the vision and main goals/topics for the newly elected European Parliament. Executive Vice President Manuela Weber highlighted the importance of this event for the mutual collaboration and reinforcement of the value of active participation in shaping Europe’s future
– Discovering the Heart of European Democracy
A guided tour of the European Parliament and in the European Quarter as well as the introduction to the State Representation North Rhine-Westphalia offered participants a firsthand look at one of the world’s most influential legislative bodies. This immersive experience provided context for understanding the processes and structures that drive decision-making at the EU level.
– Networking amongst the Participants
The EUKHT also serves to network participants with each other to experience the European spirit, exchange ideas, develop friendships and business relationships. To this end, there is a short round of introductions at the beginning and joint dinners.
Fostering Dialogue with MEPs
A central feature of the EUKHT is the opportunity for participants to engage directly with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). The “shadowing” included – depending on the respective MEP – individual exchange on the subjects related to the participants (business) life, attendance of meetings in the Parliament Building, participation in events of a party and the experience of a “day as an MEP”. These exchanges are invaluable for building bridges between young leaders and policymakers, fostering dialogue on pressing issues, and identifying opportunities for collaboration.
A Platform for Leadership and Impact
The European Know-How Transfer exemplifies the power of dialogue, education, and engagement. By participating in this program, JCI members improve their knowledge about the European Institutions, connect with like-minded people across Europe and strengthen their ability to contribute meaningfully to their communities and advocate for the values that unite us.
The Organiser Team of the EUKHT 2024 consisted of Lisa DeWeirdt as Project Manager, Oana Radu and Catalina Brinza from the JCI Europe Headquarters, Executive Assistant Susan Houterman, EVP Manuela Weber, Alexandra Botos as speaker and supporter, Jonathan Sebbah as photographer and VP Fatih Sengül for the Social Media Communication.
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