There’s something about EYCA conferences. You arrive with an overpacked suitcase, the info pack and agenda printed (just in case), and a quiet hope that you’ll be able to stay up to date with your emails. A few days later, you’re heading home with notes full of ideas in every pocket, new thoughts bouncing around in your head, a mental list of people to follow up with, and at least one dancing photo – maybe even an award – in your bag.

This year, we gathered in Pristina, Kosovo for the 41st EYCA Conference, and from the very start, it was clear this wasn’t going to be just another meeting. The Prime Minister of Kosovo welcomed us personally, speaking about the importance of the European Youth Card for Kosovo’s young people and why connecting them to Europe’s opportunities is more than symbolic, it’s essential.

Our EYCA President followed with a look back at the past year: a mix of achievements, milestones and all the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the network growing. It was a moment of reflection, but also a reminder that the pace isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

The conference gave plenty of space for our partners to share insights and updates, with strong contributions from the European Commission, the Council of Europe, ERYICA, Eurodesk and NTT Data. It’s always encouraging to hear how our work fits into the wider picture and where we can push further together.

A standout moment was definitely the debut of the new Youth Panel. They are sharp, committed, and impressively confident for a first appearance, quickly showing that they’re not just here to observe. They're ready to challenge, create, and lead.

We also had the chance to connect with our newest addition to EYCA, the Young Creators: cardholders bringing storytelling and fresh perspectives into our work. It was their chance to present themselves to the entire network and show the importance of involving young creative people from different backgrounds to bring fresh initiatives through creation. Value comes from building with young people, not just for them.

One session that really got people talking? The branding project! Far from a dry exercise in logos and taglines, it became a space to explore what EYCA stands for, how we communicate across sectors, and what we can do to become more visible, more relatable, and more consistent. Plenty of honest opinions, a few surprising insights, and lots of scribbled sticky notes.

Of course, we cannot forget that we officially welcomed new members to the EYCA family, including organisations from outside the EU. It’s always exciting to see the network expand, not just in numbers but in perspectives and possibilities.

As a final note, we wrapped up the official conference with various programme updates: from technology developments and the European Student Card to all our youth activities, the Maximising Impact programme and all the work we’ve gone through. The General Assembly kept things moving on the governance side, while regional discussions offered space for open and valuable exchanges.

And then, when the plenary rooms are closed, it’s time for the celebrations.

The Kosovo Philharmonic treated us to an evening of culture, followed by dinner, connections, and of course: the Excellence Awards. It’s always a special moment to recognise great work, and this year’s winners earned their spotlight:

• 🏆 Quality benefits & discounts: Movijovem, Portugal
• 🏆 PR & Communications: Youth Act Centre, Albania
• 🏆 Knowledge of young people: Center for Youth Education, Montenegro
• 🏆 Sustainability: Carné Joven Comunidad de Madrid
• 🏆 Youth mobility & active citizenship: NYCA, Bulgaria
• 🏆 Active contribution to EYCA: Carné Joven Comunidad de Madrid

Some won awards. Others just won at the photo booth. But either way, it was a night to remember.

As always, the most meaningful moments weren’t just the ones on the agenda. They happened in conversations between sessions, over breakfast, or during a walk back to the hotel. That’s the beauty of EYCA – the work is real, the people are committed, and the connections stick. 

Enjoy the after movie here.