EMPURRA - REGENERATIVE RURAL EMPOWERMENT YOUTH PROGRAM
Youth participation program with the purpose of empowering the young population of the rural context of Odemira, to actively participate in democratic and civic life and, in order to generate effective responses that promote the regeneration of the rural context, and the sustainability of social, ecological, economic and cultural systems at local, bio-regional and European level.
Youth investigation across the territory
We traveled through the territory of Odemira with a clear purpose: to listen.
We wanted to gain an in-depth understanding of the desires, challenges and aspirations that drive the young people in the municipality. We believe that in order to create significant change, it is essential to first understand the stories, contexts and dreams of those we want to inspire.
It was from these meetings with all the schools in the municipality of Odemira that we built our learning program. Each step of the program was designed to respond to the realities and desires that we identified, transforming them into opportunities.
Explore, in video format and in just one minute, the discoveries that helped us develop the EMPURRA program.
Driven by:
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Youth Summer Camp EMPURRA
What kind of programme to expect this week that could change your life.
Art and Expression:
Let your creativity shine with engaging workshops that stimulate personal and collective expression:
Theatre: Take part in improvisation dynamics that explore current issues and develop your ability to express yourself.
Outdoor activities:
Connect with nature and experience unforgettable adventures:
Canoeing and surfing: Discover the pleasure of being on the water while learning techniques and challenging yourself in a safe and fun environment.
Community garden (Apprentice Forest): Learn how to plant, care for and harvest, promoting direct contact with the land and respect for natural cycles.
Observation of fauna and flora: Explore the local ecosystem, identifying species and understanding the importance of their preservation.
Guided Walks:
Explore unique trails with specialised guides who lead you through stunning landscapes and tell fascinating stories about the region and its biodiversity.
Themed Evenings:
The countryside comes alive at night with activities that combine fun, reflection and connection:
* Bonfires: Magical moments around the fire, with shared stories and music.
* Outdoor debates: Inspiring discussions on social and environmental issues.
* Cinema in nature: Film sessions projected outdoors, with themes that inspire and educate.
Nature camping:
Live an authentic experience of connection with the environment, sleeping under the stars and learning basic survival and sustainability techniques.
Collaborative Games:
Challenge yourself and strengthen team spirit with activities that promote leadership, group work and creative problem-solving:
* Sporting adventures: Orienteering competitions, group sports and physical challenges.
* Co-operation dynamics: Games that strengthen empathy, communication and collaboration.
Youth Forum:
An open and dynamic space to amplify the voices of young people:
Sharing experiences: Give your opinion on the world and listen to different perspectives.
Discussion of global issues: Address issues such as climate change, responsible consumption and environmental rights.
Action proposals: Work on concrete ideas and projects that can be implemented in your community.
Each activity in our programme is designed to inspire, connect and empower young people, promoting creativity, environmental awareness and team spirit.
Join this transformative experience.
Next year it could be you!
know more
Participating in the Re.Rural Program is also an act of caring for the future – yours, the future of the communities, and the future of the territories we want to regenerate.
Thanks to co-financing from the European DEAR Programme, we have made it possible to offer the gift economy model, which allows each participant to contribute the value they feel and can offer for their registration — every contribution is welcome, even if it doesn't involve money.
More than a financial gesture, this choice represents a commitment to the experience, an act of shared responsibility and care for the collective that we make possible together.
This contribution helps cover the costs of training, accommodation, online seminars, and support throughout the course.
The gift economy reflects our commitment to keeping this experience accessible, inclusive, and regenerative, open to all young people who wish to be part of this transformation.
During the in-person immersion residencies, each participant will be responsible for their own meals. Group meals will be organized, offering local, nutritious options at fair prices, strengthening regional producers and the village's circular economy.
We believe that money is like water:
When it flows, it nourishes, connects, and makes life grow around it.
By choosing to participate consciously and responsibly, you are becoming part of this flow of abundance — sustaining the collective and contributing to a more regenerative future.
Weekend
Immersive Re.Rural
Feel, understand, and be inspired before beginning the journey.
We invite you to experience an immersive weekend in the vibrant village of São Luís, the living heart of our ecosystem.
An opportunity for you to experience the territory, the group, and the purpose that give life to the Re.Rural movement.
Immersion Objectives:
Reconnect with your personal purpose, in direct contact with the Earth and the community.
To meet other young people who are already leading rural regeneration in Portugal.
Join the Re.Rural Ecosystem, a learning and mutual support network between young people and organizations that care for rural areas in Portugal and Europe.
Explore the Re.Rural Journey more closely — ideal if you're still deciding whether to apply and want to experience the energy of the project.
