Young people shaping their future and their neighbourhood
11 August 2026
At Foyer des Jeunes, every young person is seen as an active contributor. The youth centre supports young people aged 8 to 25 in their personal, social and civic development, giving them the tools and space to express themselves, take initiative and contribute to collective projects.
Throughout the 2025–2026 year, young people were involved in a wide range of initiatives where they could experience citizenship in practice: sharing ideas, speaking up, meeting other members of society and taking action in their own environment.
Taking part and making decisions together
Youth participation is at the heart of Foyer des Jeunes. Through regular youth councils organised for different age groups, young people can share their ideas, propose activities and help shape the programme.
These participatory spaces give young people the opportunity to gain confidence in their own voice and to see that they can have an impact on their environment. To make sure everyone has a way to express themselves, other tools are also available, including a suggestion box that is permanently accessible at the reception desk.
This participatory approach can also be seen in the everyday life of the youth centre. During events open to the public, older young people take on an active role as representatives of the organisation: welcoming visitors, leading activities and supporting younger participants. These responsibilities help them develop independence and a sense of responsibility.
Getting involved in their neighbourhood
Foyer des Jeunes also encourages young people to get involved beyond the walls of the youth centre. Through the “Molenbeek for Brussels 2030” project, they took part in workshops exploring the future of their municipality, met other young people from across Brussels and contributed to proposals developed through the Youth Coalition at the Brussels Parliament.
Participation also happens at neighbourhood level. Through the “Molenbeek Historique” neighbourhood committee, young people have been able to discuss issues that directly affect their daily lives, including cleanliness, mobility, public spaces and quality of life in the neighbourhood.
These initiatives show young people that their voices matter and that they can contribute to change in the places where they live.
Taking action for others
Young people’s involvement also has a strong solidarity dimension. Every year, Foyer des Jeunes organises initiatives that give young people the opportunity to take action for others.
In 2025, the “Km pour la paix” project combined a sporting challenge with a solidarity campaign. The young participants trained together as part of a project bringing together personal challenge, teamwork and solidarity.
Through the solidarity iftar and visits to residential care homes, young people also experienced the importance of social connection and mutual support.
Growing by taking responsibility
Whether they are taking part in a youth council, organising an event, getting involved in their neighbourhood or supporting a solidarity project, young people develop much more than practical skills.
They learn to work together, stand up for their ideas, understand the realities around them and take their place in society.
At Foyer des Jeunes, citizenship is not simply a concept. It is built every day through shared experiences and projects led by young people together.
