As part of the Erasmus+ project YoungSDG – Global Youth for SDGs: Empowering Future Leaders (KA210-YOU), nearly 50 young people, educators, policymakers and youth organisations came together in Gran Canaria to explore practical ways of advancing sustainable development through local action.
On 20 May 2026, the Pizza for SDGs event took place at La Grada Youth Creative Space in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain, bringing together participants aged 16–25 for a day of interactive learning, dialogue and co-creation around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Organised by Consulta Europa under the framework of the YoungSDG project, the event aimed to move beyond awareness-raising and provide young people with practical tools to design initiatives capable of generating social and environmental impact within their communities.
The programme combined inspirational talks, networking activities and hands-on workshops, creating an environment where participants could exchange ideas, learn from real-life experiences and develop their own sustainability-focused proposals.
Connecting Young People with Sustainability in Practice
The event opened with contributions from local and regional stakeholders committed to youth participation and sustainable development.
Representatives from local government highlighted the importance of involving young people in shaping more sustainable communities and creating opportunities for meaningful civic engagement.
Participants were also introduced to the objectives and achievements of the YoungSDG project, which seeks to strengthen young people’s understanding of the SDGs through innovative educational approaches, participatory methodologies and international cooperation.
Research Insights from YouthSOFTPOWER
A dedicated session presented findings from the YouthSOFTPOWER project, coordinated by Consulta Europa and focused on strengthening youth engagement with the Sustainable Development Goals and Official Development Assistance (ODA).
Researchers from the University of La Laguna shared insights gathered from more than 500 young people and youth workers across five European countries. The study revealed strong interest among young people in climate action, digital learning and collaborative work, while also highlighting the need to make development-related concepts more accessible through interactive and youth-friendly educational tools.
Inspiring Local Success Stories
One of the highlights of the event was a panel showcasing practical examples of sustainability and social innovation initiatives already making a difference in the Canary Islands.
Representatives from Soy Mamut Cultural Association presented projects such as Huella Positiva, Ruta Siete ULPGC and CoNaturaleza, demonstrating how volunteering, environmental education and community participation can contribute to achieving the SDGs.
The Fundación Sergio Alonso shared experiences linking sustainability, education and technology through initiatives such as AgroSOS, EduDemoS, En el Mismo Código and Proyecto Árboles, all designed to promote innovation, digital skills and environmental awareness among young people.
Participants also heard from ERUA – European Reform University Alliance, represented by the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), which showcased examples of student participation, internationalisation and youth involvement in institutional sustainability initiatives.
From Discussion to Action
A central element of the symposium was a series of participatory workshops where young people worked in teams to develop solutions to sustainability challenges relevant to island communities.
Throughout the sessions, participants explored topics including:
- Sustainable tourism
- Climate action
- Responsible use of natural resources
- Circular economy and waste reduction
- Sustainable food systems
- Equality and social inclusion
- Community wellbeing
Working collaboratively, participants transformed ideas into concrete project concepts and reflected on how local action can contribute to global sustainability goals.
ERUA also facilitated a dedicated workshop challenging participants to propose realistic sustainability measures for educational institutions and organisations, encouraging them to identify actions capable of generating significant impact with limited resources.
Building Future Leaders for Sustainable Development
The day concluded with an informal networking session under the Pizza for SDGs format, allowing participants, speakers and organisations to continue exchanging ideas in a relaxed and collaborative environment.
All attendees received a YouthPass Certificate, recognising the competences and skills developed through their participation in this non-formal learning experience.
The event demonstrated how young people can become active contributors to sustainable development when provided with the right tools, opportunities and spaces for participation—an objective that lies at the heart of the YoungSDG project.
YoungSDG – Global Youth for SDGs: Empowering Future Leaders continues to support young people across Europe in developing the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to contribute to a more sustainable future.