Young Leaders in Barents -program builds skills, confidence and international networks

The Young Leaders in Barents (YLIB) program offers young people the opportunity to learn, grow and gain real experience in sports leadership. Now, after a three-year period of the program being funded by the Erasmus+, this article brings together the experiences and insights of the participants themselves.

Bringing together young people from Finland, Sweden and Norway, YLIB program helps participants develop leadership skills, understand how sports is organized across borders, build international networks and gain hands-on experience in organizing sports events. At the same time, it creates space for young voices to be heard and valued in the development of sports.

By reading this, you will not only learn what YLIB is but also hear directly from young people about what they have gained, what challenges they see, and why youth involvement matters more than ever.

Young Leaders in Barents (YLIB)

• 18 to 25 years old

• Participants from Finland, Sweden and Norway

• Learning from leadership and event management

• Networking over sport and national borders

YLIB is part of the Barents sports cooperation between Finland, Sweden and Norway. Its goal is to develop young people into skilled, confident and internationally minded leaders and individuals who do not just participate in events, but also help plan, manage and improve them. 

Real responsibility for young people 

Photo: Saana Kehus

YLIB is more than a training program, it is hands-on experience where real experiences create real learning. Participants are actively involved in planning and delivering Barents Games events, from opening ceremonies and social programs to communication and coordination.

For many, this hands-on approach was exactly what drew them in. As one participant explains: “I wanted to continue learning about event creating.”

In 2024, young leaders played a key role at the Barents Summer Games in Kemi–Tornio, where they acted as hosts, organized activities for participants and contributed to the overall execution of the event. 

In 2025, their role became even stronger. YLIB participants were part of the local organizing committee for the Barents Winter Games in Alta, taking responsibility for areas such as the opening ceremony and the YLIB program itself. 

Learning, networks and confidence 

For the participants, YLIB offers much more than event experience. According to the young people themselves, the program builds knowledge, confidence and future opportunities.

One participant explains that they joined the program “to make my voice heard on topics I’m passionate about, such as sports, youth and health.” They say the program has provided “a lot of knowledge, experience and networking,” particularly in event management. 

Another highlights the international perspective: YLIB has given insight into how sports systems differ between Finland, Sweden and Norway, while also allowing participants to share their experiences with other young people. 

For one participant, the impact has been more long term. Their interest in sports politics has grown so much that they have chosen to study political science. YLIB has also brought them “into the rooms of decision-making” and increased their confidence to take on leadership roles.  

Experiences that shape the future 

A key outcome of YLIB is increased confidence. Participants are given real opportunities to take responsibility, speak up and step into leadership roles. For some these might be the first opportunities.

One participant says they are most proud of speaking up about topics they care about and contributing to making events successful and enjoyable: “It has given me confidence and experience that I can use in jobs, relationships and my own sports career.” 

Another highlights a moment when being unexpectedly asked to speak at an opening ceremony and succeeding despite having little time to prepare. The experience strengthened their confidence and ability to adapt.

For others, the experience has opened doors to new roles: “YLIB has taken me into the rooms of decision-making and given me the confidence to take on leadership roles,” and even “helped me become a board member and leader in other organizations.”

A shared theme across these experiences is clear: YLIB provides real opportunities to grow, try new things and succeed. 

A cross-border community 

One of the strongest aspects of YLIB is international cooperation. The program brings together young people from different countries and backgrounds, helping to build understanding and collaboration across borders.

Participants highlight networks and community as one of the most valuable aspects. Working with peers from other countries broadens perspectives and strengthens cooperation skills. 

At the same time, the program gives young people a genuine chance to influence what future sports events look like and whose voices are heard. 

Looking ahead 

While YLIB has already created strong results, participants also see opportunities for further development. “We are on the road to showing how important it is to involve youth, but more support and funding are still needed,” one participant reflects.

At the same time, the future looks promising. With upcoming events such as the Barents Summer Games in Oulu and future host cities already preparing, YLIB continues to grow as a platform for young leadership.

At its core, YLIB is more than a leadership program. It is a space where young people gain confidence, build networks and influence the future of sports in their region. As the participants’ experiences show, it is also a journey, one that turns ideas into action, and young people into leaders.