Reclaim the City/Earth

In 2025, we joined forces with young people to highlight the scarce green spaces in Brussels and ask the question: why is there so little nature that we as young people can use?

In 2025 We brought together young people from Brussels to examine and visualize the need for more nature in open spaces.

We did not do this alone, but together with young people from Peru, Philippines, Indonesia and other partner countries of 11.11.11. Together we investigate how nature is experienced in urban environments worldwide. We do this on the basis of a survey which we put into a report. A report that we distribute among young people and youth workers in Brussels!
During this project, learning from each other is central. Among ourselves and together with the international youth, we exchange ideas and bring them to life in Brussels! Here we put creative actions to make more nature accessible to young people.

In short, this project involves: a international exchange, an in-depth report and a visible, impactful project in our city.

What we did?

From the first meeting, young people at the wheelTogether, a group of young people reflected on what truly matters: what questions should we definitely ask when it comes to nature and young people in the city? This input formed the basis of our survey. Several young people also formed a steering committee for this phase of the project. This group actively participates in developing the questionnaire, provides feedback, and serves as a sounding board for the rest of the project.

In April we launched both a Brussels and international surveyYoung people from various countries shared their experiences of how they experience nature in the city. Or not.

And at the end of April the time had come: 17 young people from Indonesia, Ecuador, India and Belgium came together online for an inspiring international exchangeWe discussed the results of local surveys, reviewed creative campaigns, and exchanged ideas for public space initiatives. We will use the energy and stories from this exchange to fuel the creative community in Brussels.

Then the time had come, time to reclaim a piece of green space in Brussels! Together we brainstormed a big, magical picnic and brought our ideas to life. We spent a week working together on a giant picnic blanket and colorful decorations! In early October, we enjoyed the autumn sun together during our giant picnic in the Cinquantenaire Park! With small, striking changes, we made this picnic more than just eating and sitting: it was a statement. Because young people themselves indicated it in our survey and report: there is a need for places to to be real! To picnic, sit, see friends, socialize, and be fully involved as young people in the design of the city and nature. This action is our collective response.