The recent Youth Hub at Boost by FC Rosengård on August 27, 2024, brought together young adults from Malmö to explore democracy in new and meaningful ways. Organised by Wellbeing Lab as part of the “Do You Know YOUR DEMOCRACY?” project, this workshop focused on helping participants reflect on their role within a democratic society and in their own communities.

Through a series of engaging activities, the workshop encouraged participants to connect with democratic principles on both personal and societal levels. The day began with a guided meditation accompanied by rosemary essential oil, inviting participants to centre themselves and imagine democracy as a value they can embody daily. This unique approach to democracy resonated with participants, many of whom were experiencing meditation and reflective practices for the first time.

The session included discussions on topics such as embracing diverse perspectives, cancel culture, and the importance of listening to differing opinions—a key aspect of healthy democratic societies. An inspirational talk on following one’s passions and exploring Erasmus+ opportunities sparked curiosity about studying abroad and pursuing careers connected to community and democratic engagement.

Each participant received a “Malmö Heart” poster as a memento and a reflective writing assignment to take home, encouraging them to think about what democracy and community mean in their lives. The Youth Hub received positive feedback, with participants expressing interest in future sessions, reflecting the workshop’s success in fostering a supportive and engaging space for young adults to connect with democratic ideals and envision their role in Malmö’s community.