Piteå Municipality in north Sweden was proud to co-host the YES Forum Annual Event “Nordic Insights on Sustainable Futures: Inclusion & Innovation in the Green Transition” in June 2024. Hosting this conference was a milestone for Piteå Municipality, and collaborating with the YES Forum’s secretariat was a major advantage.

From the beginning, the staff at the YES Forum demonstrated strong competence and dedication, supporting us in the process of organising this large-scale European event. Their expertise played a significant role in ensuring that every detail was carefully planned and executed, making the event a success.

The secretariat was not only involved in the logistical work. They were involved in every aspect of the conference, from the planning of content to the final wrap-up. We felt supported every step of the way, which allowed us to focus on the broader objectives of the conference – European connections, and partnerships.

The event brought together a diverse range of European organisations, providing us with a unique platform to showcase the opportunities available in our region. It was a chance to highlight our strengths, particularly in areas like sustainable development, and – with inputs from our European counterparts – how social inclusion can be incorporated in the green transition. The conference also enabled us to explore potential cooperations with new partners, broadening our network across Europe. By hosting such an event, we were able to put north Sweden on the map in European discussions, enhancing our visibility and influence in important regional matters.

Moreover, the event had an impact on our local community. It was an opportunity to demonstrate how a small municipality like Piteå can contribute to and benefit from the larger European context. The presence of numerous European organisations in Piteå allowed for an exchange of ideas and best practices, which will undoubtedly influence our future projects and initiatives.

We are also proud to have been part of a collaboration that directly contributes to the development of our youth in the European labour market. By working with the YES Forum, we have been able to create new opportunities for our young people, helping them gain the skills and experience they need to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. The conference highlighted the importance of youth engagement in these critical areas and reinforced our commitment to supporting their growth and development.

In conclusion, the experience of co-hosting the EU conference with the YES Forum has been very beneficial for Piteå and we are thankful for all the support from the secretariat. It has not only enhanced our capacity to organise such events but also strengthened our ties with the broader European community. We look forward to continuing our work with the YES Forum and other European organisations, to further our goals in sustainable development, social inclusion, and youth empowerment.

More about the event “Nordic Insights on Sustainable Futures”