One highlight of the Innovative Thinking Lab was the range of expertise shared in sessions, from academic lectures to talks by activists. Speakers like Tică Darie, Ilinca Petrescu, Laura Pistarini, Tim Mortimer, Ioan Ioniță and Mihai Vacariu made the event engaging by sharing their personal and professional stories. They spoke about civic engagement, mental health, experiences in conflict zones such as Ukraine and Gaza, interreligious dialogue, and community leadership. Their stories showed how strong values can inspire people to take action and turn their passions into meaningful careers.
Toward the end of the event, the focus shifted to taking action. Participants worked in teams, using design thinking to develop practical strategies for their organisations to encourage dialogue and bridge divides. Their ideas included improving how sensitive topics are discussed and creating safe spaces for open conversations among youth with different viewpoints. The key takeaway was that in polarised times, youth movements can help people listen, understand, and work together, building the foundation for stronger, more united communities.
