YOUDEX Project

What happens when students truly run their own school? In this episode, Aine and Florian from a democratic school in Berlin share their journeys from traditional education into a system built on equality and shared power. From leading school meetings to serving on justice committees, they talk about learning to handle conflict, accept criticism, and stand up for their ideas. They reflect on freedom, mental health, creativity, and the challenges of self-motivation. Tune in for a powerful conversation about voice, responsibility, and growing into adulthood through democratic education.

What does it mean when every student truly has an equal vote? In this episode, Ola from Poland reflects on her final year at the democratic school Bullerbyn and the confidence she gained through shared decision-making. As a meeting facilitator, she experienced firsthand how dialogue, voting, and listening shape a school community. She shares how learning through relationships and real-life experiences, like turning a creative skill into summer work, changed her understanding of knowledge itself. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about equality, self-expression, and growing through experience.

What if school meant traveling, sleeping in forests, and learning through adventure? In this episode, Noëmie from Belgium shares her experience in a democratic school and later at the alternative traveling school Lycée Voyageurs, where classes happened on the road. She describes organizing trips, making decisions in circles, and discovering the balance between freedom and responsibility. From nonviolent communication to building confidence and maturity, Noëmie explains how learning beyond the classroom shaped her voice and worldview. Tune in for an inspiring story about education, exploration, and finding your place in a community.

What’s it like to step into a sociocratic school and immediately start shaping it yourself? In this episode, Ceder from the Netherlands shares how joining De Vrije Ruimte opened the door to real participation, from launching a student coffee machine project to debating phone policies and helping redesign shared spaces. He reflects on finding his place in a larger school community, navigating slow decision-making processes, and discovering how freedom and responsibility go hand in hand. Tune in for an energetic and honest story about taking initiative, belonging, and learning by doing.

Can a change of school help you discover who you really are? In this episode, Sjef from the Netherlands looks back on three years in a democratic high school that gave him space to grow at his own pace. What began as a practical decision became a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and shared responsibility. He talks about freedom, flexible schedules, feeling part of a close-knit community, and why democratic education isn’t the right fit for everyone, but can be life-changing for some. Tune in for a thoughtful reflection on identity, choice, and belonging.

YOUDEX will engage young Europeans who have practised democracy, since the early stages, in different spheres of their lives, such as their families, schools and local communities. The project will co-create with them a safe digital space for them to share their personal stories and experiences of being active participants in democratic societies

What happens when you switch from a traditional school to a democratic one in your final years? In this episode, Ola (19) from Warsaw shares how joining a free democratic school transformed her outlook and confidence. In this episode, Ola (19) from Warsaw shares how joining a free democratic school transformed her outlook and confidence.

What does it mean to have a real say at university? In this episode, Pavel (24) from Bulgaria shares his experiences as an elected student council member, moving from organizing events to shaping important decisions for his peers. Hear how he helped empower student clubs, advocated for practical changes like first aid supplies, and learned valuable lessons about teamwork, responsibility, and institutional structures. Pavel reflects on the challenges and rewards of democratic involvement, the influence of family tradition, and how these experiences have prepared him for life beyond university. Tune in for an inspiring look at making a difference, even behind the scenes.

How does a democratic school experience shape your path into adulthood? In this episode, Tymoteusz shares his journey from traditional Polish schools to discovering new independence and self-awareness at a free democratic school. He reflects on the freedom to choose what and how to learn, the importance of community decision-making, and the value of open dialogue in resolving conflicts. Now studying pedagogy at university, Tymoteusz explains how these experiences built practical life skills—like self- management, emotional awareness, and confidence in making choices. Tune in for an honest look at personal growth, community, and the lifelong impact of student-led education.

What’s it like to find freedom and acceptance after switching from a traditional to a democratic school? In this episode, Kalin (15) from Sofia shares how his journey began with uncertainty but quickly turned into a story of confidence, creativity, and belonging. Hear how democratic education allowed him to pursue his passion for acting, take part in collaborative projects, and truly have a voice in school decisions. Kalin explores the difference in support, the relaxed atmosphere, and how making your own choices leads to personal growth and real-life skills. Tune in for an uplifting perspective on responsibility, friendship, and the power of learning in your own way.

How do young people find their voice in democracy? In this episode, Princess (18) and Mary (14) from Ireland share their experiences on youth advisory panels, student councils, and leading debate clubs. They discuss the importance of being heard, shaping children’s rights, and engaging with policymakers in Ireland’s parliament. From tackling tough topics in debate to representing peers at university, Princess and Mary reflect on the confidence, empathy, and responsibility gained through democratic involvement. Listen in for honest insights about democracy in crisis, the power of youth voices, and why active participation matters—now and for the future.

What’s it like to truly have a say in your own education? In this episode, IJsbrand (18) from Vrije Ruimte in The Hague shares how democratic schooling has shaped his daily life, his confidence, and his view on learning. From participating in sociocratic circles and real decision-making to exploring personal interests —like researching hydrogen mobility—IJsbrand reveals how freedom and responsibility go hand in hand. He reflects on the difference with traditional schools, the value of community, and the skills that prepare you for adult life. Tune in for an inspiring story about self-direction, mutual respect, and the power of being heard.

Ever wondered what daily life in a democratic school is really like? In this episode, Friedrich (12) and Frida (14) from Berlin share their honest perspectives on freedom, fairness, and friendship in democratic education. They reflect on the contrast with traditional schools, the power of having a voice, and how learning can happen anywhere—from rewriting a play together to simply exploring the forest. Discover how their experiences have helped them grow in confidence, learn to speak up for themselves, and develop important social skills. Listen in for a genuine and relatable conversation about growing up with choice and respect at the heart of learning.

How does growing up in a democratic school shape your life and perspective? In this episode, Paula (21) from Leipzig looks back on ten years at a free school, sharing memories of creative projects, engaging lessons, and real involvement in decision-making. She explains how having a voice in rules and responsibilities built a sense of community and self-knowledge, and how experiences like preparing school meetings and hiring staff taught her skills for life. Paula reflects on the contrasts with traditional schools, the impact of empathy and compassion, and why she believes democratic education could change the world for the better. Join us for a thoughtful conversation about self-discovery, community, and the lasting influence of student-centered learning.

How does a decade in a democratic school shape your outlook on life? In this episode, Ishaan (20) shares his journey from the Freie Schule Leipzig to Berlin, reflecting on the freedom to choose his path, the value of real student voice, and the power of deciding for yourself when—and how—to learn. Ishaan discusses the impact of assemblies, empowering experiences like leading meetings, and how democratic principles extend beyond school into his living community and council work. Hear how this approach has strengthened his confidence, social awareness, and openness to different perspectives. Dive into a story about growing alongside your inner child, building community, and finding your own voice.

What’s it really like to experience freedom and responsibility in a democratic school? In this episode, Mali and Piet from Berlin offer a candid look at their daily routines, the ups and downs of learning without grades or exams, and the unique motivation that comes from wanting to keep up with friends in class. They share their honest perspectives on the benefits—and challenges—of having so much choice, the importance of supportive teachers, and the joy of participating in creative school projects. Tune in for a real-life conversation about independence, self-motivation, and what democracy in education means to two young students.

What’s it like to board at a democratic school on the other side of the world? In this episode, Iris from Taiwan shares her experiences at a holistic democratic boarding school, reflecting on the freedom to choose classes, express opinions, and shape her own path. She discusses the challenges and benefits of living away from home, how her school’s approach to conflict resolution could improve, and why having space to think about life’s values is so important. Iris also explores how democratic education can empower young people to become active, thoughtful voices in a fairer society. Tune in for an honest perspective on growing, learning, and finding your place in the world.

In this episode, Aine shares her personal journey of joining a democratic school at age 15 and discovering the freedom, responsibility, and sense of community it brings. She talks about learning to communicate respectfully, the unique culture of hand signals, and the challenges of making democratic education accessible for all. Aine also reflects on what it means to be a “model citizen” in a system where everyone is encouraged to choose their own path. Dive into an honest and inspiring conversation about self-directed learning, inclusion, and the realities behind democratic education.

Curious about what it’s really like to attend a democratic school? In this episode, Aine shares her personal journey of joining a democratic school at age 15 and discovering the freedom, responsibility, and sense of community it brings. She talks about learning to communicate respectfully, the unique culture of hand signals, and the challenges of making democratic education accessible for all. Aine also reflects on what it means to be a “model citizen” in a system where everyone is encouraged to choose their own path. Dive into an honest and inspiring conversation about self-directed learning, inclusion, and the realities behind democratic education. What does true freedom in education feel like?

Brophy's Story for the YOUDEX project. YOUDEX’s general objective is to provide youth with tools and spaces to collect and share lived experiences of democracy, empowering peers to learn, enjoy and enforce their participation rights in democratic societies.