As part of the U-Lead initiative, young migrants and local youth come together at the European University Institute to share their ideas for needed change in Florence with local authorities.
U Lead is an initiative of the Migration Policy Centre at the EUI and the UNICEF Office for Europe and Central Asia. It brings together unaccompanied minors, young adults, Italian high-school students and members of academia to foster leadership, empathy and active civic participation.
Following a successful pilot in June last year, the Autumn Programme took place over twelve consecutive weeks starting on 9 October 2025, with weekly afternoon sessions held in Florence.
Throughout the programme, participants collaborated to explore how key rights enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child are realised in their everyday lives. Guided by coaches and academics, they identified the rights most meaningful to them and reflected on how they can contribute positively to their communities.
During this closing event, which marks the conclusion of this first full edition, participants will present the outcomes of their work to EUI members, local authorities and civil society representatives. A certificate ceremony will follow.
Learn more about U-Lead.
This event is by invitation only.