Colorful posters bearing the cryptic message 'Oe zit et?!' and a QR code have recently appeared throughout Oostende. These posters, also featured in social media videos showing masked figures, are part of a promotional campaign designed to pique the interest of young people.
Scanning the QR code leads to a mysterious Instagram account and eventually reveals the date for the kick-off event: October 3rd. Starting at 12:00 PM, a lunch will be held at 't Bosjoenk, followed by the official launch of the renewed Oostende Youth Council.
All young residents of Oostende, or those with strong ties to the city such as students or individuals pursuing hobbies there, are invited. Active youth workers are also welcome. The city aims for broad representation within the youth council.
During the kick-off day, the City of Oostende will explain the objectives and workings of the youth council. Attendees will help shape the operational framework and brainstorm important youth-related themes for the upcoming year. An initial task will involve preparing advice based on a survey about popular youth hangouts in the city.
The youth council's new approach emphasizes dynamism and participation, moving away from traditional meetings. Young people will have the opportunity to influence the agenda themselves. Youth movements and professional youth work will have dedicated consultation sessions, allowing for broader topics and giving a voice to those not affiliated with existing youth organizations.
The youth council will convene monthly, supplemented by two open youth cafés annually. Additionally, thematic programs will be introduced, allowing young people to commit to specific interests without needing to join the entire council structure.
“"The new youth council primarily wants to understand what Oostende's young people truly think."
