Civic AF* (Civic As Future)
Civic AF* (Civic As Future): The future will be as I am, and I am as the future.
Project objectives
The Civic AF* is a new creative programme that is designed to help young people flourish, connect and shape their future. Many young people today face isolation, mental health struggles, digital overload, and disinformation.
The programme focusses on building the participants well-being and resilience and developing their voice through creativity, while connecting with others and exploring civic engagement. Civic AF* encourages new ideas and empowers participants to shape a better future.
Civic AF* is open to anyone aged 18 to 30 from the Nordic and Baltic countries, Ukraine and Belarus. The programme welcomes students, creatives, activists, emerging professionals, and curious minds who seek personal growth and a positive impact in their communities.
Activities
The programme consists of two main parts:
- 5-day online programme: Open to all selected participants, this stage focuses on personal well-being, resilience, and community building. Participants take part in interactive workshops, creative labs, coaching, and talks with psychologists, artists, coaches, and media experts. This phase helps young people develop confidence and begin shaping ideas for a better world, guided by mentors and peers.
- 5-day on-site residency: From the online cohort, 20 of the most motivated participants will be invited to join the in-person residency at Lūznava Manor and guesthouse Svilpaunieki in Latvia. The residency offers an immersive experience with creative workshops, storytelling, activism, and media-making. The programme concludes with a festive event celebrating participants’ work and connections.
Outputs and community: Participants create ideas, creative content and contribute to the Civic AF* campaign. They stay connected as part of the growing Civic AF* community.
Project goals
- Build personal resilience and well-being
- Connect with others and strengthen community
- Understand media and fight disinformation
- Explore ways to contribute to civic life
- Express yourself through creativity and storytelling
- Help shape a fair and inclusive future
Project partners
Civic AF* is organised by the Royal Danish Embassy in Latvia and the Danish Cultural Institute in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. The programme is implemented in partnership with the Embassy of Sweden in Latvia, Daugavpils University, Riga Stradins University, the Latvian Academy of Culture and Ad Astra Social Impact Studio.
Civic AF* is supported by the Nordic Council of Ministers.
Contact
For questions, contact DCI project coordinator: Žanete Eglite ze@danishculture.com