On May 29, 2024, during the “Shared Space, Shared Future” youth exchange in Orrefors, Sweden, participants came together for an afternoon of experiential learning through game play. Held in the heart of the Swedish countryside, the session offered a playful yet thought-provoking dive into themes of power dynamics, community inclusion, and collective decision-making. Facilitated by Vladislav Artiukhov, the game challenged participants to step into the shoes of different stakeholders navigating the challenges of creating inclusive and sustainable shared spaces.
The activity—part simulation, part negotiation game—was rooted in real-world social dynamics, inviting young people to embody roles such as local residents, newcomers, decision-makers, and community organizers. As they moved through various scenarios, participants were tasked with managing conflicts of interest, balancing resources, and co-designing solutions to foster coexistence and equity. Photos from the session reflect a buzzing room full of energy and collaboration: young people leaning over illustrated boards, engaged in deep debate and bursts of laughter, sketching out plans and confronting dilemmas head-on. The gameplay format broke down barriers quickly, offering an inclusive space where participants from different backgrounds could explore complex issues through role-play and imagination.
Beyond the mechanics of the game, the session sparked powerful reflections. Participants shared personal insights about belonging, voice, and agency—connecting their in-game experiences to real-life situations in their own communities. Many left the room feeling inspired, not only by the game’s format but by the collective wisdom and empathy that emerged in the process. This session in Orrefors highlighted the strength of non-formal education in empowering young people to understand and reshape their social environments. By combining play, participation, and reflection, the “Shared Space, Shared Future” exchange continues to open new pathways for civic imagination and youth-led transformation.
As the youth exchange progressed, the lessons from the gameplay continued to resonate—surfacing in group discussions, creative sessions, and everyday interactions. The game became more than just an activity; it served as a common reference point for exploring the values of inclusion, cooperation, and shared responsibility. With tools like these, the participants are not only learning about the world—they are learning how to change it, together.
For more information about the project or to explore opportunities for collaboration, visit the PLANET4B website or email planet4b@zirs.uni-halle.de.
About PLANET4B Project
Horizon Europe research project PLANET4B aims to understand and influence decision making affecting biodiversity and to map existing knowledge that explains why certain decisions are made, to understand better how biodiversity can be prioritised in our decision-making.
PLANET4B receives funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101082212.
This project is funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under the UK government’s Horizon Europe funding guarantee.
This project receives funding from the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI).
Contact person:
Maryna Bykova, CGE Erfurt e.V.
