Networks and cities' news

Vilanova i la Geltrú Hosts Climathon to Tackle Water Conservation

A 12-hour event at the Neápolis Innovation Agency.

Portrait Series #5: Crossing Seas, Breaking Barriers: Yahya’s Refugee Story

Yahya's journey is a powerful testament to the resilience and determination for those who seek to escape systemic discrimination and violence. Born to parents from Darfurand raised in central Sudan, Yahya faced relentless racism and physical violence, which eventually forced him to flee in search of safety and dignity. His difficult journey to Europe highlights the challenges faced by many refugees. From Egypt to Fundão, through Libya and a dangerous crossing of the Mediterranean Sea, Yahya's story illustrates both the desperate circumstances that drive migration and the enduring hope for a better future. His arrival in Fundão, Portugal, marked not only the end of his physical journey but also the beginning of a new chapter, in which he dedicates himself to helping other migrants. This narrative emphasize Yahya's experiences and his significant role at the Migration Centre of Fundão, offering a poignant insight into the human face of the global refugee crisis.

REMOTE-IT Online Forum: Beyond Lifestyle - Digital Transformation, Nomads, and Remote Workers

On October 30, 2024, URBACT Remote-IT Network organized its second Online Forum, focusing on the theme of digitalization. This event delved into the broader implications of digital transformation—how it affects individuals, the advantages and drawbacks of living in the digital age, and how digitalization can be leveraged to improve both personal and professional environments.

The event began with introductory remarks from the organizers, specifically Alisa Aliti Vlašić, the lead expert of the Remote-IT project, and Nataša Mirić, representative of the project’s lead partner, the Dubrovnik Development Agency (DURA). The forum was moderated by Alison Partridge, an ad hoc expert for Remote-IT, whose expertise encompasses technology, inclusive enterprise, entrepreneurship, and economic development in both the UK and European cities. Since 2009, Alison has served as Lead Expert for five different URBACT Action Planning and Transfer Networks, including TechTown and TechRevolution, both led by Barnsley. She is also one of the founding members of the TechPlace community and has led capacity-building programs in digital transitions.

The first part of the forum introduced the speakers: Haydee Sheombar, a researcher at the Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University, and Mark-Emil Talivere, an Innovation Expert from the City of Tallinn.

Midway to Impact: Residents of the Future Cities Unite for Action-Oriented Solutions

From October 8–10, the picturesque city of Mangualde in Portugal played host to the Residents of the Future transnational meeting, bringing together partner cities dedicated to tackle negative demographic trends. Nestled in the heart of Portugal’s renowned wine region, Mangualde is celebrated for its world-famous wine production and unique domestic cuisine, which delighted participants throughout the conference. The scenic backdrop and rich cultural offerings provided an inspiring setting for three days of collaboration, learning, and camaraderie.

Hackathon - The Balbriggan Innovation Challenge

Hackathon - The Balbriggan Innovation Challenge

The EcoCore Project lead partner Balbriggan, Ireland successfully ran a hackathon challenge, The Balbriggan Innovation Challenge, last Friday in the Lark Theatre, Balbriggan.

The Balbriggan Innovation Challenge allowed like-minded individuals passionate about sustainability, the green economy with a passion for the Circular Economy to contribute to the EcoCore Project and develop a greener future for the citizens of Balbriggan. The Challenge afforded a unique opportunity for individuals/teams to innovate, co-create and network, using their unique skills to develop ideas around the green and circular economy, with a prize fund available to further develop and implement the successful ideas. 

Policy paper: cities for a stronger circular economy

The Action Planning Netwok LET'S GO CIRCULAR! is calling for more support from the European Union (EU) in establishing local circular economies. The partner cities and assigned URBACT Lead Expert Eleni Feleki  have formulated their concerns in a position paper. They are now inviting other cities to support the paper.