Leaders of the future: shaping the youth of Bizkaia for social impact
In a world full of challenges, the energy and ideas of youth are Bizkaia’s greatest asset. But how do we convert this potential into actions that transform our society? The answer is in a new way of educating: by forming active citizens who can lead change today. Join us to discover how the leaders of the future are being forged in our territory.
Youth, the driving force for change for the future of Bizkaia
The youth of Bizkaia are not only the future, they are the present asset that has the potential to transform our society. Their energy, creativity and vision are essential to tackle the great challenges of our time. But for that potential to become a real impact, they need more than good intentions: they need tools, spaces and confidence to lead change.
The key lies in education for active citizenship, training that goes beyond theory and promotes commitment, critical thinking and direct action. At BBK Kuna, the social innovation space of Bizkaia, we are convinced of this power. Therefore, we promote an ecosystem for learning and action where young people are the protagonists.
Through initiatives such as Googaz, which accompanies them to create their own creative projects with a social background; The Future Game, an immersive experience that dares them to solve the challenges of tomorrow; or an agenda of cultural of mind-opening activities and that encourage dialogue, we are shaping the leaders of the future.
What does it mean to be an “active citizen” in the 21st century?
Being an active citizen today goes far beyond voting every four years or fulfilling basic obligations. It means taking a leading role in building society, understanding that our actions, however small they may seem, have a direct impact on our community.
Beyond participation: a commitment to the community
An active citizen does not wait for others to solve problems. He/she looks at his/her environment, identifies needs —from the loneliness of older people in his/her neighbourhood to the impact of climate change on our coasts— and feels part of the solution. It is a voluntary and conscious commitment to collective well-being, born from the conviction that a better Bizkaia is the responsibility of all.
Key skills: critical thinking, empathy and collaboration
In order for this commitment to be translated into effective action, it is essential to develop certain skills:
- Critical thinking: to analyze reality in depth, to question the why of things and not just dwell on the symptoms of a problem.
- Empathy: to connect with other people’s experiences, understand their needs and design solutions that are really helpful and respectful.
- Collaboration: because complex challenges cannot be solved alone. The ability to work as a team, listen and to harness talent is essential to generate a real and lasting impact.
These are not innate skills, but competencies that are trained and strengthened through practice.
Shaping social leaders: the practical approach to social innovation
Theory is important, but true social leadership is forged in action. Therefore, at BBK Kuna we are committed to an educational model where practice and experience are the core focus. It is not just about teaching about social change, but about creating the conditions for young people to make it possible.
“Learn by doing”: from theory to projects with real impact
Programmes such as Googaz are the perfect example of this approach. Instead of master classes, young people work in teams to identify a social problem they care about and design, prototype and launch their own creative project. Through this process, they not only learn methodology but also develop resilience, creativity and management skills. The goal is clear: to move from an idea to a tangible project that creates a positive impact.
The importance of creating safe spaces for dialogue and experimentation
For creativity and leadership to emerge, young people need to feel safe in expressing their ideas, making mistakes and learning from their mistakes. At BBK Kuna, and through initiatives such as The Future Game, we create environments of trust where discussion and exchange of views are encouraged. These spaces are laboratories of ideas where they can experiment without a fear of failure, an indispensable condition for true innovation.
The role of mentors and intergenerational connection
No one is born knowing how to lead. Accompaniment is key. That is why our programmes connect young people with mentors and professionals from different sectors. This intergenerational connection not only provides them with technical knowledge and experience, but also provides them with inspiration, contacts and fundamental support to overcome the obstacles they encounter along the way.
The future is about participation: a call to the youth of Bizkaia
The transformation of Bizkaia will not be a mere show to be watched; it will be a process to be lived and built in first person. And in this construction, youth participation is not optional, it is essential. The future is designed and activated with your hands.
How can young people start to generate change
Generating change does not require starting with a master plan. The first step is much simpler: curiosity. Look at your environment: your neighbourhood, your school, your group of friends. Talk about what worries or inspires you. Find out about the causes that interest you and dare to propose small improvements. Every great social leader began with a simple question: “What if we do this another way?”.
Join the movement: initiatives and opportunities in BBK Kuna
At BBK Kuna we want to help you take that next step. You don’t have to do it alone. If you want to train your ability to solve the challenges of tomorrow, The Future Game awaits you. And if you are simply looking for inspiration and a place to connect with other people with the same concerns as you, our cultural agenda is always open.
We invite you to be an active part of this community. Follow us, participate and activate your enormous potential to build the Bizkaia that you dream about.
Building a fairer and more dynamic Bizkaia together
Leadership of the future is not inherited, it is built. It is forged in action, collaboration and the courage to propose solutions to the challenges around us. As we have seen, educating in active citizenship is the best investment we can make for a more conscious and participatory Bizkaia.
At BBK Kuna, our commitment is firm: to continue being the catalyst where young talent finds the tools, confidence and inspiration to transform society. Because the future is not something you wait for, it is activated. And we are activating it together.