Coordinating the #FACT! project in the Netherlands was an intensive, rewarding journey that focused on much more than just digital education. Hosted in Schaijk from November 11th to 19th, 2025, this mobility brought together 38 youth workers representing nine countries: the Netherlands, Finland, Greece, Spain, Italy, Latvia, Romania, Türkiye, and Slovakia. As the coordinating team from Stichting yEUth, we steered a curriculum specifically designed to dismantle the digital epidemic of disinformation that impacts roughly 70% of Europeans every day. By grounding our workshops in media literacy, we challenged participants to act as “digital guardians,” protecting democratic values against the rising threat of AI-generated falsehoods.

The daily rhythm of the project was built around non-formal education, using hands-on workshops as a catalyst for professional growth. We moved from the theoretical—exploring the psychology behind conspiracy theories and logical fallacies—to the highly technical, mastering fact-checking tools like the Google Fact Check Explorer. As coordinators, we didn’t just manage logistics; we facilitated a space where youth workers could develop leadership and intercultural communication skills. Living together at the venue allowed us to foster a deep sense of European solidarity while maintaining a commitment to sustainability, such as prioritizing “green travel” and locally sourced food.

The project reached its peak during a collaborative “Action Phase” where the group created a Fake News Prevention Toolkit and a series of educational videos. These resources were designed for long-term impact, ensuring that when the participants returned home, they carried a localized strategy and a support network to continue the fight for truth in their own communities. We finished the week not just with a stack of Youthpass Certificates, but with a diverse group of empowered professionals ready to act as multipliers for digital literacy across the continent.