Hello readers! We’re Aoife Williams and Ffion Corcoran, members of the Cardiff Youth Council (CYC) and proud Members of the UK Youth Parliament (MYPs). Recently, we had the fantastic opportunity to represent Cardiff in Stuttgart at the Youth Exchange Sister Cities Meeting 2024, and we’re thrilled to share the highlights of our journey.
Setting Off to Stuttgart
Our trip began early on 27th November with a sense of excitement and anticipation. After travelling from Cardiff to Bristol Airport, we flew to Stuttgart, ready to immerse ourselves in the exchange programme. On arrival, we headed straight to our accommodation at the Maritim Hotel to settle in before diving into the official itinerary.
A Warm Welcome and Festive Start
The programme kicked off with a welcome reception at Stuttgart City Hall, where we were introduced to other young delegates and city representatives. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy and enthusiasm for the days ahead. The evening ended on a festive note with a visit to the city’s famous Christmas Market, where we soaked up the warm and vibrant atmosphere, sampling traditional treats and enjoying the cultural experience.
Day Two: Exploring Sustainability in Stuttgart
Thursday was all about learning how Stuttgart is addressing sustainability and climate adaptation. We visited Stadtwerke Stuttgart to explore their innovative energy solutions and later toured Neckarpark, a leading example of climate adaptation in urban planning. This hands-on experience provided valuable insights into how cities can respond to climate challenges creatively and effectively.
We also took time to enjoy the city’s culinary delights, including lunch at a local burger restaurant, which added a relaxed and social element to the day. The evening wrapped up with a reception at the International Youth Hostel, where we reflected on the day’s activities and connected with other delegates.
Day Three: Climate Justice and Global Collaboration
Friday focused on climate justice and the importance of international partnerships. We attended a workshop at Stuttgart City Hall led by the Federal State Institute for Political Education. The discussions were thought-provoking and centred on how young people can influence policy and action in tackling climate change.
In the afternoon, we attended a special event celebrating Stuttgart’s sister city relationships. This was a powerful reminder of how global connections can foster shared solutions to pressing issues like climate change.
Bringing It All Back Home
Our trip to Stuttgart was a whirlwind of learning, collaboration, and cultural exchange. From sustainability initiatives to discussions on climate justice, the experience deepened our understanding of how cities can work together to create a brighter future.
We’re excited to bring these lessons back to Cardiff and use them to inform our work with Cardiff Youth Council. This exchange was a brilliant reminder of the power of young people in shaping the future, and we can’t wait to share more of what we’ve learned in the months ahead!
Thank you for following our journey – stay tuned for more updates! 🌍✨