Empowering Young Professionals to End Homelessness in Europe

Between 22 and 26 June, 23 young professionals from 14 European countries came together in Braga, Portugal for the training "Empowering Young Professionals to End Homelessness in Europe", organised by FEANTSA Youth – the recently established network for professionals aged 18–35 working in FEANTSA member organisations. One of those young people was our very own Connell Angus (back row, sixth from right)

Over five inspiring days, participants had the opportunity to:

• Explore how homelessness is experienced across different European countries;
• Learn about the links between homelessness and human rights;
• Reflect on their strengths and needs as young professionals in the sector;
• Exchange both good – and less successful – practices in addressing homelessness;
• Shape ideas for the future activities of FEANTSA Youth.

A highlight of the week was a presentation by the Cruz Vermelha Portuguesa - Delegação de Braga, offering valuable insights into local responses to homelessness, including outreach work and a range of housing solutions (emergency and temporary shelters, Housing First, and supported shared housing).
The session also explored the Portuguese approach to harm reduction, which goes beyond reducing risks linked to substance use and is grounded in dignity, rights, and citizenship.

From Transform Community Development, huge thank you to everyone who contributed to making this training such a meaningful experience. Through our work with FEANSTA we are building a stronger network of young professionals committed to ending homelessness across Europe.