The stage is set for the next generation of social innovators and cultural pioneers, as the application phase for the prestigious German Children and Youth Award, presented by the German Children's Fund, has officially opened. At a time when the voice of young people is increasingly coming to the forefront, this award acts as recognition and encouragement for those who courageously participate in shaping their living environment.
Impetus for Youth Participation
The prize, which is positioned as the most highly endowed of its kind in Germany, is endowed with a total of 30,000 euros. With this, the German Children's Fund emphasizes the importance of the active participation of children and young people in societal development processes. Europa-Park in Rust, which has been a loyal partner for years, will once again provide the setting for the award ceremony, thereby publicly honoring the commitment of the young participants.
A Foundation for Democratic Engagement
In an era of digital transformation and societal upheaval, Holger Hofmann, Federal Managing Director of the German Children's Fund, emphasizes the essential role of children and youth participation as a cornerstone of a democratic society. "
These young people not only represent our future but also shape the here and now," says Hofmann. The award aims not only to give young people a voice but also to reward their efforts in social justice, political engagement, and cultural diversity.
Categories that Capture the Zeitgeist
Divided into the categories
Solidarity Together,
Political Engagement, and
Children and Youth Culture, the award covers a wide range that reflects the different aspects of children's and youths' engagement. It honors the various ways in which they have a positive influence on society.
Prizes as Recognition and Incentive
The competition is designed to award the most innovative and committed projects. The first place in each category will be awarded 6,000 euros, while honorable mentions will be rewarded with 3,000 euros. The special
Europa-Park JUNIOR CLUB Award, which acknowledges exceptional commitment in the field of education and entertainment, completes the prize package.
Participation and Selection Process
Interested groups can apply immediately until January 31, 2024, via the official website
www.dkhw.de/dkjp. Projects should have already started or been completed in the last six months. A professional jury will first nominate six projects per category, after which the Children and Youth Advisory Board of the German Children's Fund will select the winners.
An Event that Fosters Community
The award ceremony, scheduled for October 7, 2024, will not only include the awards but will also be an event that excites participants with a versatile program including musical performances and celebrity guests. The winning projects will also have the opportunity to present their initiatives to a broad audience. Short films that inform about the projects and their creators in advance will also be part of the event.
Conclusion and Outlook
With the opening of the application phase for the German Children and Youth Award 2024, an important initiative to promote young people begins. The award encourages children and teenagers to realize their creative and innovative ideas for a better tomorrow and offers a platform that highlights their commitment and achievements. The upcoming event at Europa-Park is more than an awards ceremony; it is a celebration of youthful inventiveness and civic participation, a shining example of how including young voices can strengthen democracy and shape the future.
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