Speak Up

Youth Empowerment Against Hate Speech 

01.06.2024 - 31.12.2025 

Blackwater Training is the Irish partner in Speak Up, an Erasmus+ youth exchange designed to promote tolerance, empathy, and non-violent communication among young people. Hosted by our Spanish partners JENF in the mountain village of Rascafría, in the Madrid region, the project brings together participants from across Europe to explore how language and attitudes can foster inclusion and mutual respect.

About the Project

Speak Up empowers young people to recognise, question, and challenge hate speech both online and in their daily lives. Through interactive workshops, team challenges, and creative group activities, participants develop an understanding of:

  • The roots and impact of hate speech

  • The importance of empathy and active listening

  • Positive communication and storytelling techniques

  • Intercultural understanding and European solidarity

Alongside structured workshops, the project includes hiking, intercultural evenings, and collaborative tasks that build confidence and lifelong friendships.

Participant Profile

The Speak Up youth exchange brings together 36 young people and youth leaders from Ireland, Spain, and other European countries. Irish participants are selected through Blackwater Training's open call process and are typically aged between 18 and 30. We particularly welcome applications from those who:

  • Have an interest in social inclusion, equality, and civic engagement

  • Live in rural or small-town areas of Ireland

  • Are open-minded, motivated, and keen to collaborate in an intercultural setting

All participants receive full preparation and support before, during, and after the exchange to ensure a positive and inclusive experience.

Why It Matters

In an era of increasing online hostility and polarisation, Speak Up equips young people with the awareness and skills to engage in dialogue rather than division. The project contributes to key EU Youth Goals, particularly Goal 4 (Information and Constructive Dialogue) and Goal 9 (Space and Participation for All). It also supports Erasmus+ priorities on inclusion, participation, and European citizenship.

Our Role

Blackwater Training coordinates the Irish delegation and supports the educational design of the programme. We ensure that participants gain both personal and professional skills that can be transferred into community and youth work contexts in Ireland. Following the exchange, we share learning outcomes and good practices through workshops, social media, and local youth events, encouraging more young people to engage in Erasmus+ opportunities.

Project Reference: 2024-1-ES02-KA152-YOU-000235430