The training course “Management of NGOs (MANGO)” was implemented in Thessaloniki from 9 to 18 February 2018, bringing together 34 youth workers from across Europe, including countries such as Greece, Romania, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Italy, Portugal, Poland, Sweden, and Germany. The project aimed to enhance participants’ knowledge and skills in NGO management and administration, while also fostering the exchange of experiences and the co-creation of practical tools to improve the effectiveness of youth organizations.
The programme was designed based on the real needs of youth workers and the challenges they faced in their professional environments. Participants, aged 18 to 30 with at least one year of experience in youth NGOs, engaged in a comprehensive learning process that combined preparation, training, and practical application. During the initial phase, they identified their learning needs and shared insights about civil society in their respective countries.
Throughout the training, participants explored key management areas such as volunteer management, time management, funding opportunities, as well as communication and networking. This was followed by a pilot phase where the developed tools were tested, leading to the creation of practical e-guides and support materials aimed at improving NGO operations. In parallel, a documentary was produced, capturing the project’s process and highlighting the personal journeys of the participants.
As a result, each participant developed a personal portfolio aligned with their current or desired role within an organization, defining the next steps for their professional development. The project significantly contributed to the empowerment of youth workers and the establishment of a strong network of collaboration at the European level.