Early school leaving is one of the main barriers to the future of young people, especially those in vulnerable situations. The lack of opportunities and adequate support can perpetuate cycles of exclusion, limiting the personal and professional development of thousands of young people across Europe. Aware of this reality, at Developia we have promoted Breaking the Cycle, an innovative project that has demonstrated how education, support and creativity can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
As the Breaking the Cycle project draws to a close, we reflect on the impact of this transformative initiative, designed to foster youth participation, European citizenship and the inclusion of those at risk of exclusion. With an innovative learner-centered approach, this project has provided key skills and confidence to participants, empowering them to take charge of their future.
Following our inspiring youth exchange in Malmö, Breaking the Cycle activities were replicated in each partner country, expanding their impact and promoting local debates on education, inclusion and youth empowerment. One of these key meetings took place on December 14, 2024, at the Asociación Cultural Grío in Córdoba, where young people from low-income backgrounds, at risk of dropping out of school prematurely, discovered the educational resources and mentoring opportunities available on our platform.
The event in Córdoba combined dynamic and educational activities that encouraged collaboration, creativity and personal development. Among them, participants took on an original construction challenge using spaghetti, tape and marshmallows, promoting teamwork and problem solving. They also had the opportunity to hear the inspiring story of Arturo, a breakdancer and activist, who shared how passion and perseverance can help overcome difficulties. They also created a gratitude tree, fostering a positive mindset, and recorded a podcast on emotional intelligence and youth aspirations.
One of the most exciting moments of the event was the practice of the flash mob choreography created in Malmö, later recreated in Zaragoza by the project’s educators. Through movement and self-expression, the young people spread the message of Breaking the Cycle, ensuring that their energy and spirit would inspire many more people.
Alongside these face-to-face events, the Breaking the Cycle online training platform has made a significant impact, with 1,825 young people registered, 26 courses completed and 60 final tests successfully passed. This resource has been key in providing participants with social and technical skills in areas such as financial education, entrepreneurship and sustainability.
The project came to a close at the University of Zaragoza, where we met with students from the Faculty of Education to discuss the crucial role of initiatives such as Breaking the Cycle in the fight against educational exclusion. As future teachers, these students will play an essential role in guaranteeing access to education and youth empowerment, demonstrating that breaking the cycles of disadvantage begins with knowledge, support and opportunities.
Although Breaking the Cycle is coming to an end, its legacy will live on in each young person who has participated, in each educator who has been inspired and in each community that has been impacted. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey towards a more inclusive and hopeful future!