Reuse and Empowerment
A youth-led project for hands-on learning, sustainability and empowerment
Reuse and Empowerment is a practical and meaningful youth project focused on sustainability, learning and personal development through the reuse of electronics and other materials.
The project is led by Joakim, aged 17, with support from Saganettverk, and is built around a simple but powerful idea:
What others see as waste can become a resource – both for the environment and for people.
By collecting, dismantling, sorting and reusing electronics, metals and other materials, young people have the opportunity to learn by doing. The focus is not on theory first, but on experience, curiosity and achievement through practical work.
The project is particularly suited to young people who do not feel at home in traditional activities. It provides an alternative setting where there is room to try, make mistakes, learn and develop at one’s own pace.
We focus on:
• hands-on learning through dismantling and reuse
• understanding materials, technology and value
• environmental awareness and sustainability
• achievement and self-confidence
• structure, responsibility and collaboration
Safety is central to the project. We place great emphasis on training and thorough preparation, and young people only take part in tasks that are safe and suited to their level. Processes involving greater risk are handled by adults with the necessary expertise.
The project is not only about reusing materials – it is about building people.
By giving young people practical tasks, responsibility and the opportunity to see the results of their own work, we create experiences of achievement that can have value far beyond the activity itself.
Reuse and Empowerment is also a step towards something more:
For some, the project may provide an entry point to work experience, practical skills and new opportunities in working life.
Here, both materials and people are given a new opportunity.
About the Project
Project Status
The project is currently under development and has received funding through Diakonilab. The first phase will be used to establish safe working procedures, acquire the necessary equipment and collect suitable electronics and other materials.
The activities will be tested together with young people under adult supervision. Experiences from this phase will be used to develop the project into a more regular programme centred on hands-on learning, sustainability and empowerment.
Goals for the First Phase
• establish a safe and organised workspace
• provide training in dismantling, sorting and the safe use of tools
• create achievement through practical and meaningful tasks
• increase understanding of materials, technology, reuse and sustainability
• explore how the project can develop into a regular programme and a pathway towards employment or further activities
Needs for Further Development
To carry out and further develop the project, we need support for suitable tools, protective equipment, storage, transport, workspace and adult guidance. We also need partnerships with organisations and businesses that can provide electronics and other materials suitable for safe dismantling and reuse.
Support for the project will make it possible to give more young people access to hands-on learning, responsibility and achievement in a safe environment.
