POWER – Youth Voice Rising

The Project POWER (KoVA Project in Finnish) strengthens the equal participation and influence of young adults in Northern Finland, focusing on 18–29-year-olds whose voices often go unheard in public decision-making. These young people want to be involved, but there are too few safe and accessible ways for them to participate.

POWER creates spaces and structures where young people can engage on their own terms, removes barriers to participation, and builds their confidence that their views matter. The project develops practical models to enhance participation both locally and nationally.

Youth influence groups will be established in Oulu, Kemi-Tornio and Rovaniemi. These groups will help young people build influencing skills, share their experiences, and make a real impact on services and local communities. Group activities will be integrated into workshops and supported with sustainable structures.

POWER also strengthens the capacity of professionals working with young people, such as local authorities, NGOs and service providers, to promote equal participation. By bringing together different actors, the project will explore the barriers young people face and identify meaningful solutions, creating new channels for their voices to be heard.

The project bridges antiracism work, prevention of youth marginalisation and local politics. It connects national youth expertise with those who often remain overlooked and builds new pathways for their involvement.