Svendborg: Culture and Creativity to Help Young People Connect

The main challenge Svendborg Municipality (Denmark) wanted to address when applying for the BSR Cultural Pearl 2024 title was loneliness among young people. They noticed that many children and teenagers were not taking part in social activities, feeling isolated, and disconnected from their community. After getting the title, the municipality aimed to find ways to improve young people’s mental health by involving them in cultural activities.

One of the main initiatives they created was called Cultural Spaces. This was a 12-week program where young people facing mental health struggles could join cultural activities. They worked with four local creative partners: a library, an experimental art school called FLUK, a music group, and a nature-focused organization called Passion for Nature.

At the end of the program, the participants could choose to keep joining the activities from one of the creative partners they liked most, or they could start their own group or network with help from volunteers at the local volunteer center.

One of the groups formed was called Culturama. This group is open to everyone. Sometimes they explore Svendborg’s cultural scene, and other times they do creative activities together. The goal is to build social skills and increase self-confidence. It has been very successful! Young people are growing, making friends, and breaking free from loneliness.

By starting their own groups and getting more involved, these young people are helping Svendborg reach the goal they set for the title year. The way culture and creativity helped these young people step out of their shells and continue growing together is very rewarding. This project has planted the idea that these kinds of activities will continue in Svendborg after the BSR Cultural Pearls year ends.

Photo: Anja Headicar