„We discussed consensus in interpersonal relationships. To be honest, I had never thought about it before. Nor had I considered that some people find it easier than others to express their opinions or say no when they don’t want something. Until now, I always thought silence meant agreement. I based this on my own approach: If I don’t want something, I just say it. But I never thought about how it would feel if I were afraid to say no… We shared our feelings in such situations with each other, and it opened my eyes. We explored the concept of „Only yes means yes“ and practiced how to communicate with each other through role-playing. I am very glad that we delved into this topic.“

„The opportunity that came my way as a young woman to learn various crafting skills was truly amazing. In a non-discriminatory environment, I was able to delve into activities like drilling, welding, woodworking, and even bike repair. What made this experience truly special was the freedom I felt to ask questions and explore these traditionally male-dominated fields without fear of judgment or bias. The supportive atmosphere allowed me to develop my skills and ignite a passion for craftsmanship. This unique opportunity not only empowered me but also shattered gender stereotypes, proving that skill and dedication are what truly matter.“

„I am so happy that I could make this amazing experience! Empowerment projects that bring together female and male participants in crafting activities are so important for challenging and dismantling male-dominant structures in society. By encouraging cooperation and equality, these projects not only provide opportunities for skill development but also promote a shift towards a more inclusive and cooperative society. Breaking down gender barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields fosters a sense of shared responsibility, respect, and understanding, laying the foundation for a more equitable future. We need more of this kind of projects!“

„As a young woman who had always been hesitant to use tools due to fear of judgment, the youth gathering was a transformative experience for me. It was incredible to be in an environment where I could freely explore and experiment with various tools without any fear or prejudice. The support and encouragement I received from my peers opened up a whole new world of possibilities. Trying out different tools and witnessing my own capabilities was empowering and exhilarating. This experience has sparked a newfound passion within me, and I am determined to continue working in this area, breaking gender stereotypes along the way.“

„We realized how differently we were socialized. The girls were told, „Make sure everyone is doing well!“ and the boys were told, „Be a man! You have to be strong and capable of everything!“ How ridiculous is that? And why the hell don’t we finally change it? It’s just crap for everyone!“

„I had learned that it was polite to take heavy things away from women. I had never thought about how it must feel for the person involved. During the youth encounter, it was quickly made clear to me that such behavior towards women is not a sign of politeness but one of patronization and belittlement. At first, I was quite taken aback. After a conversation with my „Random Buddy“, I sought the group’s help on this issue. It quickly became evident that everyone had a need to discuss this topic. We spent several hours in changing small groups talking about sexism and gender roles. In the end, we all benefited from it, but honestly, I must say that us guys finally became wiser, and the girls benefit from us having finally done so. And: There is still a long, long way to go until everyone is truly equal. I will do my best to contribute to that!“

„I’m a young man who never experienced any discrimination. Participating in the youth gathering focused on crafting opened my eyes to the pervasive issue of sexism in our European societies. Interacting with other young individuals, both female and male, shed light on the gender disparities and inequalities that exist within various spheres, including skills in a craft. Witnessing the experiences and stories shared by fellow participants made me realize the magnitude of the problem. It has ignited a passion within me to challenge these societal norms and strive for gender equality. This eye-opening experience has motivated me to be an advocate for change and to work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.“

„Participating in the youth gathering and engaging in discussions about sexism was a transformative experience for me as a young male participant. I came to the realization that I am not merely a passive observer but an active participant in addressing this issue. Recognizing that my own socialization is part of the problem, I am committed to being part of the solution. In addition to challenging and speaking out against sexist behaviors, I will also initiate conversations with other male individuals about emotions and the problems of male socialization. By creating safe spaces for open dialogue, we can break the barriers of toxic masculinity, support one another, and foster healthier relationships and mental well-being. Together, we can redefine what it means to be a man and work towards a society where everyone can thrive and express themselves authentically.“