In an era where misinformation spreads faster than facts and digital platforms shape public opinion in real time, Media and Information Literacy (MIL) has become a necessity. Within this rapidly evolving landscape, young people stand at the forefront, not only as consumers of content but as creators that impact their communities. It is within this context that YouthVoicesUP! emerged as a dynamic initiative, designed to equip youth with the tools to critically engage with information and actively contribute to a more responsible digital space.
Held from March 26–29, 2026, in Sousse, the YouthVoicesUP! Media Literacy & Digital Content Creation Bootcamp brought together a diverse group of young participants from Tunis, Jendouba, Sousse, and Gabes. Driven by curiosity, creativity, and a shared desire to better understand and shape the media landscape, participants joined the program with different experiences and perspectives, yet a common motivation: to become more informed, responsible, and impactful digital actors.
Implemented by IIDebate in partnership with Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS Tunisia), the program responded to the urgent need for stronger media literacy competencies among youth. By combining critical thinking, fact-checking, storytelling, and digital content production, YouthVoicesUP! aimed to empower participants to navigate complex information ecosystems and transform ideas into meaningful content.
Building Skills for Critical Engagement and Creative Expression
During the bootcamp, participants explored how media systems operate and how information can be shaped, manipulated, or misinterpreted. Through engaging discussions and hands-on exercises, they developed the ability to distinguish between misinformation and disinformation, verify sources, and critically assess digital content.
At the same time, the program opened a creative space where participants learned how to craft compelling narratives and adapt their messages to different digital platforms and audiences. Storytelling sessions encouraged them to reflect on issues that matter to them and their communities, creating impactful stories.
Central to the experience was a strong emphasis on practice. Participants engaged in content production workshops, experimenting with formats such as podcasts, interviews, and short-form videos. As a result, they gained practical skills that allowed them to turn concepts into concrete media outputs. This approach not only strengthened their technical capacities but also built their confidence as content creators capable of addressing challenges relevant to their localities.
Collaboration played a key role throughout the bootcamp. Working in teams, participants exchanged ideas, challenged perspectives, and co-created projects, promoting a sense of collective learning towards a shared purpose.
From Learning to Action: YouthVoicesUP! Beyond the Bootcamp
The program further emphasized responsible communication, ethical content creation, and the role of youth in countering harmful narratives and misinformation. It reinforced the idea that digital spaces can -and should- be used to promote dialogue, inclusion, and informed public discourse.
As participants presented their media productions at the end of the bootcamp, their work reflected a deeper awareness of their role as storytellers and changemakers. Each project stood as a testament to their ability to combine critical thinking with creativity in addressing contemporary issues.
Looking Ahead: National Competition and Expanding Impact
While the bootcamp marked an important milestone, it also represents the beginning of a longer journey. The momentum generated during these four days is now being carried forward through the upcoming national content creation competition, where participants will further develop and showcase their projects on a larger scale.
This next phase will provide young creators with an opportunity to reach wider audiences and amplify their voices on issues that matter. It also reinforces the program’s long-term vision: to build a network of engaged youth who continue to produce responsible, impactful content and inspire others within their communities.
The program serves as a reminder that when young people are equipped with the right tools, guidance, and trust, they do not simply navigate the media landscape, they redefine it.
Because when youth voices rise with awareness and purpose, meaningful change follows.
Stay tuned for YouthVoicesUP national competition !
