ESC: Make an impact... Youth work in Finland

Nouseva Rannikkoseutu is a Leader Local Action Group from Northern Ostrobothnia. Our area covers seven municipalities (Hailuoto, Liminka, Lumijoki, Pyhäjoki, Raahe, Siikajoki, Tyrnävä) and approximately 52 000 inhabitants who mainly live in rural areas. Our aim is to encourage local people to develop their home region; to enhance a better quality of life for individuals and communities; as well as to create new employment opportunities. The association was founded in 1996 and it has its own strategic developing plan for years 2021 – 2027. The main themes in our strategy are closely tied to topics like vivid home region, strong businesses, the participation of youth, sustainability and green deal. The plan is carried out by e.g. development projects. In addition, the association educates, informs, activates and helps local residents to apply funding and carry out their own projects. LAG Nouseva Rannikkoseutu cooperates with local people, and anyone can become a member of the association. LAG Nouseva Rannikkoseutu works both locally and regionally. We have small communities who need guidance for making changes: our organisation wants to support them by providing new knowledge and tools. One of our pivotal actions is to enhance young people’s involvement in local development. As the population is getting older, young people are seen vital for the region. Youth is encouraged to stay in the region by supporting them, creating better possibilities to participate and offering opportunities to learn and connect. LAG Nouseva Rannikkoseutu has a staff of 4-5 professionals who have expertise in project management, financial administration, local development, international affairs and communication. In addition, the organisation’s actions are guided and operated by a board whose 14 members represent the municipalities, non-profit organisations and residents of the area. The board sets out the objectives, themes and priorities for our activities. Our organisation has also own working group for the young people: it consists of youth representatives from each municipality. The role of the group is to make decisions on project funding that is aimed entirely for young people. The group also participates in our development work and makes our work visible among youth.